The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, witnessed a momentous occasion as the Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, alongside the esteemed Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development, Government of Sri Lanka, Mr. Jeevan Thondaman, jointly inaugurated the captivating exhibition, Ramayanam Chitra Kavyam.

Graced by the presence of the Director General of NGMA, Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, the inauguration marked a significant stride in fostering cultural exchange and artistic expression. Ramayanam Chitra Kavyam, an exhibition aimed at advancing India’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, promises to engage both contemporary audiences and generations to come.

Collaborating with numerous organizations and private collections, NGMA presents a dynamic visual narrative of the timeless epic, The Ramayana, through an array of artistic masterpieces. From paintings to textiles, sculptures to shadow puppets, and immersive art installations crafted with state-of-the-art technologies, the exhibition offers a diverse and immersive experience.

On this occasion, the Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture, Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi, stated that Ramayana is a binding force for the entire South East Asian Region. The footprint of Ramayana has been magnanimous and undeniable in the world, especially in the South East Asia. The Ramayana is a timeless text which stands as a beacon of wisdom, virtue, and moral guidance. The Ramayana is a reservoir of cultural values that have transcended time and space, connecting diverse civilizations in a shared understanding of humanity.

The Minister highlighted the Ramayana’s connection with Sri Lanka which is etched in the landscape, where sites like Ashok Vatika are steeped in the lore of Lord Rama’s journey.

Hon’ble Minister Smt. Lekhi also highlighted the relevance of SARI- South Asian Regional Integration. The saree becomes a symbol of shared heritage and cultural connections in South Asia with each region adding its unique touch to the saree, incorporating local motifs, weaving techniques, and draping styles.

Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development, Government of Sri Lanka, Mr. Jeevan Thondaman, stated that he is fortunate to be able to witness, how art acts as a dynamic and influential force in preserving cultural heritage.

Through the exceptional exhibits, one can see how the Ramayana serves as a common cultural narrative, for both Sri Lanka and India, and contribute to a shared cultural consciousness, facilitate understanding, and strengthen ties. The themes, characters, and events provide a common cultural thread, that connects people across borders, fostering a sense of shared history and identity.

Artistic depictions and interpretations of the Ramayana are often associated with sites and festivals that have become points of interest for cultural and religious tourism, attracting visitors from both Sri Lanka and India. In this context, the people-to-people connection remains the fulcrum of our interactions. Further, it strengthens the civilizational and cultural links, not only through the Ramayana Trail, which entwines the recently sanctified Ram Mandir in Ayodhya but also the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit between the two countries”.

Director General of NGMA Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam said that Ramayana Chitra Kavyam stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the epic, showcasing the creativity and talent of eminent Indian modern, contemporary, and traditional artists. With its eclectic collection, the exhibition aims to inspire dialogue, appreciation, and reflection on the timeless themes of the Ramayana. He also stated that Ramayana Chitra Kavyam began with the auspicious Manglaacharan Aarti by Shri Vishvanath Sanskrit Mahavidyalay, followed by the Pandwani Katha Gayan by Saipriya Pooja (SNA Awardee) & Group. In addition, the exhibition will showcase various cultural festivals, including Natyakavyam Bharatanatyam performances by the renowned Geeta Chandran, who holds the prestigious Padmashri award. Notably, attendees will also have a chance to see some of her remarkable collections on display at the event. Furthermore, attendees can look forward to enchanting performances like Dastangoi, Ram ka

Vanvas by Fouzia Dastango & Ritesh Yadav, Ramayana Chaarni Gaan by Yogesh Bhai Gadhvi (SNA Awardee), Jagatoddharana based on Ramayana by Banashree Rao (SNA Awardee) & Group, Parshurama by Shashidharan Nair, Ramkatha- Kabir ke Ram by Kaluram Damariya & Group, Ramcharit Prasang by Ramsahay Pandey (Padmashri) & Group, Harikatha in Sanskrit by Uma Maheshwari (Padmashri), Natyakatha: Katha Siya Ram Ki by Padma Vibhushan, Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha.

The Exhibition will be on view till 30^th April 2024.

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BY/SKT