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The Ministry of Culture has conceptualised the Culture Corridor-G-20 Digital Museum as a legacy project to represent and celebrate the shared heritage of G-20 members and invitee countries. The museum will create a “museum in the making” and will be unveiled at ‘Bharat Mandapam’, the venue for the G-20 Leaders’ Summit, on September 9 in New Delhi.
Submissions were requested from G-20 countries and nine guest nations under five categories: Object of Cultural Significance (as a physical display); Iconic Cultural Masterpiece (as a digital display); Intangible Cultural Heritage (digital display); Natural Heritage (digital display); and Artefact Related to Democratic Practices (physical or digital display).
The exhibit will showcase a variety of physical objects, including the Apollo Belvedere sculpture from Italy, the Kashkha outfit from Russia, and Mrs. Ples, a fossil skull discovered in South Africa.
India's contribution to the exhibit will be Panini's Ashtadhyayi, a treatise on Sanskrit grammar dating back to the 6th to 5th century BCE.
In addition, a digital museum will feature iconic works such as the Mona Lisa from France, Gutenberg's Bible from Germany, and a statue of the deity Coatlicue from Mexico. Notable artists like Leonardo Da Vinci and Vermeer will also be represented, along with cultural symbols like the UK's performance of Shakespeare's Hamlet.
During the fourth Culture Working Group meeting held in Varanasi, the G-20 nations came to an agreement on various cultural issues. These included the importance of addressing the destruction of cultural heritage in conflict scenarios, preventing the illegal trafficking of artefacts, restoring cultural property, and safeguarding the living heritage of indigenous communities. The same sentiment is to be carried forward in this unique cultural corridor exhibit.
The cultural corridor might not be accessible to the general public just yet, but there are many other alternatives in Delhi that you can explore.
National Museum
The National Museum, located in the heart of Delhi, is a testament to India's incredible history and artistic legacy. This expansive museum boasts an impressive collection of artefacts spanning over 5,000 years of history. From ancient sculptures, exquisite paintings, and intricately crafted textiles to artefacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, the National Museum is a journey through time. Highlights include the Ashoka Pillar, a symbol of India's ancient heritage, and the Gandhara Gallery, which showcases sculptures reflecting the influence of Greek art in ancient India. The National Museum provides visitors with a deep understanding of the country's cultural evolution.
Indian National Rail Museum
For those fascinated by India's railway history, the Indian National Rail Museum is a hidden gem. Located in Chanakyapuri, this museum offers a captivating glimpse into the development of railways in India. Visitors can explore vintage locomotives, royal carriages, and various railway memorabilia. The museum's highlight is a joy ride on the Fairy Queen, the world's oldest operational steam locomotive. It's a unique experience that allows you to step back in time and relive the early days of train travel in India. The museum's interactive exhibits and well-preserved trains make it a must-visit for railway enthusiasts.
National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum (Crafts Museum)
The National Handicrafts & Handlooms Museum, commonly known as the Crafts Museum, celebrates India's diverse handicraft traditions. Located near Pragati Maidan, this museum showcases a remarkable collection of textiles, pottery, jewellery, and folk art across India. Visitors can explore traditional homes and workshops reconstructed within the museum premises, providing an immersive experience of India's craft heritage. The museum also hosts live artisan demonstrations, allowing visitors to witness the intricate process of creating these masterpieces.
