Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, Bhopal is continuously known for its unique artistic presentations and preservation of cultural heritage. In this episode, a unique and incomparable work has been created in the museum premises. Famous terracotta craftsmen of Pudukkottai (Tamil Nadu) have together created a 14 feet high grand statue of Lord Ganesha. This statue is considered to be the first and only one in the country in its form and size.
In the “Myth Veethi” complex of the Manav Sangrahalaya, the consecration of the temple of the nature deity worshipped in the Pudukkottai region of Tamil Nadu (Solei Andbar Aalayam) was completed with traditional rituals under the Ayyanar temple. Under this ritual, a 14 feet high statue of Lord Shri Ganesh ji was consecrated.
To create this idol, 10 artists including artist Yanapana fitam Kumbhareshan worked continuously for about two months. After the idol was made, the traditional ritual of opening the eyes of the idol of god, ‘Kan Tirappu’ was also completed, which made this event more sacred and culturally important.
This saffron Lambodar Ganesh idol is attracting the audience with its height and grandeur. The fine carving of the idol, the gems embedded on the crown, the ornaments and the liveliness of the decoration make it unique. This idol has been baked with a special technique so that it remains more strong and durable.
Museum’s Assistant Curator and Mythic Gallery Incharge Dr. P. Anuradha told that the craftsmen of Tamil Nadu have made hundreds of idols of elephant, horse, snake, Ganesh and gods and goddesses so far, but such a huge and unique form of Ganeshji has been prepared for the first time.
Museum Director Prof. Amitabh Pandey said that this statue is a unique example of ancient terracotta art of Tamil Nadu and expresses Indian cultural diversity. He urged citizens and art lovers to visit the museum and see this unique statue.
Public Relations Officer Hemant Bahadur Singh Parihar said that this statue displayed in the Ayyanar temple has become a special center of attraction for visitors and researchers. This initiative of the museum is an important step towards the preservation and promotion of Indian art and tradition.
This unique work presented by the Indira Gandhi National Museum of Man is not only a symbol of religious faith, but is also an effort to keep the rich tradition of Indian sculpture alive.
