NEW DELHI: At the grand Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, world leaders and foreign delegates arriving for the G20 Leaders’ Summit were greeted by replicas of the Konark Sun Temple’s iconic wheel and graceful dancing women.
The host, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, personally extended a warm welcome to each distinguished guest in the arrival area.
As world leaders strolled along the red carpet, their path was lined with a display showcasing 32 “essential yoga asanas” – a curation drawn from the ancient 17th-century text of the Gheranda Samhita. This fusion of tradition and modernity set the tone for the summit.
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The Konark Wheel, a marvel from the 13th century during the reign of King Narasimhadeva-I, stood proudly in the background as PM Modi passionately shook hands with US President Joe Biden, UK’s Rishi Sunak, Canada’s Justin Trudeau, Bangladesh’s Sheikh Hasina and other leaders.
G20 EXCLUSIVES: Oman Deputy Prime Minister Asaad bin Tariq bin Taimur arrives at Bharat Mandapam, the venue for G20 Summit
He is welcomed by PM Narendra Modi
Reports: @urvashikhona pic.twitter.com/gio65B4eSM
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) September 9, 2023
With its 24 spokes, this wheel also forms the heart of India’s national flag, representing not only the passage of time but also encapsulating India’s profound wisdom, advanced civilization, and architectural excellence.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, the Konark Sun Temple has been a place of pilgrimage and a testament to India’s enduring spiritual heritage. Nestled 35 kilometers away from Puri in Odisha, it is a place where history, culture, and spirituality converge.
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The perpetual rotation of the Konark Wheel, symbolizing the Kalachakra, time’s ever-moving wheel, reflects the essence of progress and continual change. It serves as a potent symbol of the democratic wheel, mirroring the resilience of democratic ideals and our shared commitment to societal advancement.
G20 EXCLUSIVES: PM Narendra Modi receives Foreign Heads of delegations for the G20 Summit, against the backdrop of Konark Sun Temple Wheel, in Odisha.
Built in 13th century this iconic symbol not only graces our national flag but also represents India’s rich history, profound… pic.twitter.com/inQ2Z27Hny
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) September 9, 2023
Leaders of the largest 20 economies will deliberate on the future, renew their commitment to progress, and collectively steer the world towards a brighter tomorrow under the watch of Nataraja, the divine dancing form of Lord Shiva.
