Unique art exhibition on Lord Buddha showcases India’s rise as a civilizational state

After a string of events that highlight India’s rise as a civilizational state, New Delhi’s National Gallery of Modern Art is hosting an art exhibition “Buddham Saranam Gacchami” on the voyage of Buddhist art and culture around the world.

Divided into sections each of which documents a particular facet of Buddha’s life and Buddhism, the show as a whole through the art works offers a glimpse into the history and philosophy of Buddhism providing an immersive experience to the audience.

The exhibition inaugurated by Meenakashi Lekhi, Union Minister for Culture, on May 10 follows major events that have spotlighted how post-Nehruvian India is consciously transitioning towards a new national identity, rooted in its unique historical experience.

Last week, on the occasion of Buddha Purnima, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the celebrations in India. In his message, he said: “May the ideals of Lord Buddha keep showing light and giving strength to us all.”

In the video with the message, PM asked people to follow Lord Buddha teachings, one which tells devotees to “become their own light”, thus emphasising on self-enlightenment.

PM also said what Lord Buddha taught “unifies the entire humanity in one thread” providing humankind with a common denominator instead of dividing them.

In April a two-day Global Buddhist Summit “Responses to Contemporary Challenges from Philosophy to Praxis” was organised in the Capital. It explored how Buddha’s middle path holds the key to resolving the conflicts between extreme viewpoints and restoring balance in the universe.

Addressing the gathering at the Summit, PM said while the world at present was facing severe challenges like war, violence, climate change and environmental disasters there were crores of people who believed in the Buddha. “This hope, this faith is the biggest strength of this earth. When this hope gets united, the Buddha’s Dhamma will become the world’s belief and Buddha’s realisation will become the belief of humanity,” he remarked.

Given Buddhism’s international footprint, it was not surprising that paintings from other countries like Myanmar and Sri Lanka are also part of the show and these provide an insight into how the religion moved across different countries in the world. The exhibition, while delving and exploring the spiritual aspects of art and their relation with Buddhism and its journey, also highlights universal values of wisdom, compassion, and peace.

There are many iconic works and also those made by great masters. For example, the show has works by legendary Indian artist Nandalal Bose who has explored the life and teachings of Buddha and his path of spirituality through line drawings with an ethereal quality. Likewise, Nicholas Roerich and Bireswar Sen in their works represent the scenic Himalayas in its true beauty.

Addressing the gathering during the inauguration, Lekhi talked about how Lord Buddha’s teaching remains relevant even today after 2,500 years. She also said that while Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal, he received enlightenment in Bodh Gaya and there were several other places in India that were connected with him. This she said has made the bonds between India and Nepal very strong.

She added that the exhibition was part of an effort to bring forward some rare and unique elements of art associated with Buddhism, especially the works of artist Nandalal Bose.

Among those present for the inauguration were senior Buddhist monks, ambassadors and diplomats of countries including Nepal, Myanmar, Mongolia, South Korea, Thailand, Bhutan, Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Syria, Peru and several other nations.

The Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche of the Drepung Gomang Monastery was the Guest of Honour while the International Buddhist Confederation also actively participated in the event.

The art exhibition will remain open to the public till June 10.