By Mabel Pais

Let’s honor the diversity that unites us  and the creativity that sets us free.

Happy Independence Day!

In honor of India’s Independence Day, August 15, The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), in partnership with The Consulate General of India (CGI) in New York and The City of New York (CNY), has inaugurated a Chakra Sculpture at Times Square, New York. The Inauguration Ceremony of The Indian Independence Exhibition took place at 10:30 a.m. on August 15 and was open to the public. The exhibition will be available for public viewing until August 22, 2023.

“We are honored to welcome Mayor Eric Adams to this remarkable exhibition, which pays tribute to the timeless cultural bond between India and the United States,” expressed Rajeev Kaul, Board Member, IAAC. “The Chakra Sculpture’s presence in the heart of Times Square is a testament to the enduring friendship and shared values that unite our two nations.” he added.

“We are honored to bring the Konark Chakra to the heart of New York City to celebrate India’s 77th Independence Day. The Chakra or wheel stands as a shining symbol of India’s heritage, thought and timeless wisdom. Through the display of Chakra at Times Square, we not only celebrate the rich culture of India but also the enduring friendship that binds our two nations – United States and India. This sculpture, a faithful replica of one of the twenty fours Chakras that adorn the Konark Temple dedicated to Surya or the Sun God, carries with it the essence of India’s history, resilience, and unity.  It also symbolizes our deep reverence for nature, for the sun. We extend our warmest gratitude to The Honorable Eric Adams, Mayor of New York City, for joining us on this momentous occasion, to Mr. Vikas Khanna and to the Indo-American Arts Council Inc. for their partnership in the project. I also thank the State Bank of India for their support”, said Consul General of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal.

“I’m so proud to be representing India on August 15 to showcase the artisans and history and culture in this piece of stone which represents the wheel of time. I think this day is gifted to us by (our) ancestors, their sacrifices, their resilience, and the determination that the children will grow up in a free country where they can choose to be anything they want. And I chose to become a chef, and I’m so proud that the entire country supported me. This is the power of freedom. Today, on August 15, we salute all those who stood up for this power and also gave us the vision of (the) future of India”, added Chef, Restaurateur, Writer and Filmmaker Vikas Khanna.

Following the inauguration, the public was invited to explore the Chakra Sculpture exhibit which will be open until August 22nd, 2023. This exhibition provides an opportunity for visitors to engage with the captivating history and symbolism that the Chakra represents.

THE CHAKRA SCULPTURE

 The Chakra Sculpture, with dimensions of 8 feet x 6 feet and an approximate weight of 1800 kilograms (4,000 pounds), stands as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity. It is a faithful replica of the Konark Chakra, a revered emblem from the Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha. The original Konark Chakra is a meticulously carved stone wheel, one of 24 such wheels adorning the Konark Sun Temple. Built in the 13th century, the Konark Sun Temple endured challenges throughout history such as invasions and natural calamities, yet its resilient spirit persevered. The intricate carvings and symbolic representation of the Konark Chakra continue to captivate visitors, serving as a poignant reminder of India’s architectural and cultural legacy. Despite facing adversity, the Chakra embodies the enduring power and movement of the Sun, a source of sustenance and life, underscoring the same values as embodied by the city of New York.

 (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Education, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Spirituality, and Business)