The G20 Summit venue in India is showcasing the country’s rich architectural heritage, featuring iconic sites like the Konark Temple from the 13th century in Odisha and the historic Nalanda University in Bihar.
During a ceremonial dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for various heads of state and other world leaders and their spouses at the Bharat Mandapam venue, a replica of the ancient Nalanda University, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as a stunning backdrop.
A glimpse into India's vibrant Music, Folk Dance & Rich Culture
Beautiful presentation of
India's artforms by @sangeetnatak, @MinOfCultureGoI at the #G20 dinner hosted by Hon'ble @rashtrapatibhvn, Smt. Droupadi Murmu ji.
Hon’ble PM of UK @RishiSunak and Mrs. Sunak share… pic.twitter.com/TUfkLDS4SD
— G Kishan Reddy (@kishanreddybjp) September 9, 2023
Nalanda University: Symbol of India’s Educational Legacy at G20 Summit
Nalanda University holds special place one of the world’s oldest universities, and Prime Minister Modi took the opportunity to explain its significance to some of the G20 leaders, including UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Symbolic and historic!
Leaders' warm greetings with PM @narendramodi feature the Konark Wheel of Odisha, a marvel from the 13th century under King Narasimhadeva-I's rule. This wheel, with its 24 spokes, also graces India's national flag, symbolizing the nation's ancient wisdom,… pic.twitter.com/nWbTAnS64Y
— MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) September 9, 2023
Officials pointed out that Nalanda University embodies values such diversity, meritocracy, freedom of thought, collective governance, autonomy, and knowledge sharing all of which align with the fundamental principles of democracy.
Nalanda symbolizes India’s enduring commitment to advanced education and its aspiration to foster a harmonious global community, in line with India’s G20 Presidency theme, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
Konark Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site Welcomes G20 Leaders
In the morning, the focus shifted to India’s Konark Temple, with a picturesque image of the Sun Temple at Konark in Odisha forming the backdrop as the prime minister welcomed G20 leaders before the Summit began at the Bharat Mandapam.
The Sun Temple, constructed in the 13th century during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its iconic Konark wheel with 24 spokes is integrated into India’s national flag and represents India’s ancient wisdom, advanced civilization, and architectural brilliance.
The Iconic Konark Wheel: A Symbol of India’s Rich Cultural Heritage
Situated along the Bay of Bengal, bathed in the morning sunlight, the Konark Temple is a grand representation of the sun god Surya’s chariot. Its 24 intricately designed wheels are drawn by a team of six horses, symbolizing the passage of time, the concept of ‘Kalachakra,’ and the idea of progress and constant change, as described on the UNESCO website.
The rotating motion of the Konark Wheel serves as a powerful symbol, signifying the wheel of democracy, reflecting the resilience of democratic ideals and a commitment to societal progress, as noted by officials.
