As the iconic Times Square fills with the hues of India's tricolor and the frenzy to celebrate India's 77th Independence Day, the 1,800kg 'Chakra' sculpture, a replica of the famous Konark wheel, was launched here to mark the special occasion.
Members of the American Indian community and the diaspora flocked to the famous New York City monument in large numbers to celebrate India's Independence Day on Tuesday.
Consul General of India in New York Randhir Jaiswal raised India's tricolor flag in Times Square amid chants of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', 'Vande Matram', and 'Jai Hind' and chants of patriotic sounds when those gathered on the occasion waved Indian and American flags.
The flag-raising ceremony was organized by India's leading overseas organization Federation of Indian Associations - NY NJ CT NE (FIA) and was attended by Maestro Sarod Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, chef, filmmaker, Michelin-starred restaurateur and businessman Vikas Khanna, FIA President Ankur Vaidya, FIA President Kenny Desai, and other FIA officials as well as Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC) Members Anil Bansal and Rajeev Kaul as well as Vice President Rakesh Kaul.
On this occasion, Khanna revealed a specially designed Chakra sculpture. The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in New York and New York City, organized the opening ceremony of the Indian Independence Exhibition, featuring "full Chakra sculptures" inspiration, a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage and shared values between the two nations."
"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 is a shining symbol of our heritage, thought, and transcendental wisdom. Through the display of Chakras in Times Square, we not only celebrate India's rich culture but also the long friendship that has bound our two nations together. - United States and India 'India,' says Jaiswal.
“This sculpture, a faithful reproduction of one of the 24 chakras that adorn the Konark Temple dedicated to Surya or the Sun God, carries within it the essence of India's history, resilience and unity. It also symbolizes our deep respect for nature, for the sun,” he said. Khanna, who has been working to bring the Chakra sculpture to New York for nearly five years, told PTI it was a "dream come true" and an emotional moment for him to see the work. sculptures are unveiled in Times Square, especially on the occasion of India's National Day.
"It's great to bring this art form, such a powerful legacy" to New York and show the world "the power of Indian art".
The Chakra project was started before the COVID-19 pandemic and the craftsmen have worked diligently to bring the project to fruition.
"It was created by the gods," said Khanna, standing in front of the giant Chakra as he pointed out the intricate work of the sculpture.
The sculpture will be moved to Khanna's next restaurant in New York.
“For the expat community, for the younger generations, they will be consulted to see something of India – pure and majestic at the same time,” says Khanna.
