In celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) inaugurated a special exhibition featuring rare Ganesh sculptures from the esteemed Lance Dane Collection, alongside evocative paintings by renowned artist K. Viswanathan.
Titled “Vighneshwara Kutumb: Ganesh and His Family”, the exhibition showcases artistic representations of Lord Ganesha spanning eight centuries—from the 12th to the 20th century. These works illuminate the many facets of Ganesh as the beloved son of Shiva and Parvati and brother of Kartikeya, highlighting his central place in Indian cultural and spiritual traditions.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Ram Bahadur Rai, President of IGNCA and Padma Bhushan awardee, who underscored the importance of cultural preservation. “Lord Ganesha is an integral part of our lives and a guide on the path of knowledge and culture,” he stated, urging the need to bring such exhibitions to the broader public, especially the youth.
Also present were Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA; Prof. Achal Pandya, Head of the Conservation and Cultural Archives Division; and Prof. Richa Kamboj, Head of the Kaladarsana Division. The event drew scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors from diverse backgrounds, fostering a collective appreciation for India’s artistic heritage.
Prof. Achal Pandya emphasized IGNCA’s ongoing commitment to public engagement: “We are continuously working to make our collections more accessible. The Lance Dane sculptures are a significant part of this effort, and we are proud to present them alongside other important works.”
Organized jointly by the Conservation and Kaladarsana Divisions of IGNCA, the exhibition is open to the public at the Darshanam Gallery until September 5, 2025.
Lance Dane, a British art historian and collector, dedicated his life to documenting and preserving the artistic legacy of India. His collection remains a testament to the enduring symbolism and aesthetic richness of Lord Ganesha.
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Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
