G20 Summit

New Delhi, Sept 06: India is gearing up to host the world’s top economic leaders for the G20 Summit on September 9-10, with the national capital, Delhi, bedecked and bustling with preparations. At the heart of this grand event stands the Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan, brilliantly illuminated and adorned with vibrant plants, flowers, and festive embellishments.

One of the key highlights of the Bharat Mandapam is a striking 28-foot-tall Nataraja statue, which shines brilliantly under the night sky. Crafted from Ashtadhatu, a combination of eight metals, this 18-ton masterpiece adds an aura of cultural richness and significance to the summit. It’s a testament to India’s age-old artistry and traditions.

The Nataraja statue is the creation of the renowned sculptor Radhakrishnan Sthapaty from Swami Malai in Tamil Nadu and his dedicated team. What makes this achievement truly remarkable is the speed at which it was accomplished. In a remarkable feat, this colossal statue was crafted in just seven months, showcasing the extraordinary skills and dedication of Indian artisans.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared images of this magnificent statue on Wednesday, expressing the cultural and historical significance it represents. In his tweet, he remarked, “The magnificent Nataraja statue at Bharat Mandapam brings to life aspects of our rich history and culture. As the world gathers for the G20 summit, it will stand as a testament to India’s age-old artistry and traditions.”

The symbolism of this statue is profound. Nataraja, the Lord of Dance, is a significant deity in Hinduism, representing the cosmic dance of creation and destruction. By featuring this iconic figure at the G20 Summit venue, India conveys a message of balance, harmony, and the interconnectedness of the world’s economies and nations.

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The G20 Summit, comprising 19 countries and the European Union, represents approximately 85% of the global GDP and two-thirds of the world’s population. The theme for this year’s summit is “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action in addressing global challenges.

As India takes on the role of hosting the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Modi has encouraged all ministers to download the G20 India mobile app. This app, launched by the Ministry of External Affairs, is designed to facilitate communication among the delegates. It offers multilingual support, allowing interactions in the languages of all G20 member countries.

Already, the G20 India app has gained significant traction, with over 15,000 downloads from around the world as of Tuesday. It is expected to play a vital role during India’s G20 presidency in fostering collaboration, discussions, and diplomatic exchanges among leaders from diverse backgrounds.

The G20 Summit 2023 in India promises to be a significant event with global leaders converging to discuss critical economic and political matters. The magnificent Nataraja statue at Bharat Mandapam not only adds cultural richness to the summit but also symbolizes India’s commitment to unity, harmony, and cooperation on the world stage. As leaders gather, the message of balance and interconnectedness conveyed by this statue resonates, reminding the world of the shared responsibilities we bear in shaping our common future.