BRICS delegates have unforgettable experience of India's cultural diversity, folk traditions, and civilizational heritage at IGRMS Bhopal
The BRICS Culture Working Group meeting commenced at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre in Bhopal, aiming to strengthen cultural ties among BRICS nations through mutual respect, consensus, and shared objectives. On the first day, representatives from BRICS member nations began deliberations on further consolidating cooperation in the cultural sector and advancing shared priorities.
Delegations from India, Brazil, China, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Indonesia, Iran, Russia, and Ethiopia participated in person, while the delegation from Egypt joined the proceedings via a hybrid mode. Held ahead of the BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting, this working group meeting serves as a vital platform for strengthening cultural cooperation among member nations, advancing shared initiatives, and fostering practical collaboration in the cultural sphere.
In the evening, the BRICS delegations visited the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS). The delegates toured the museum's open-air exhibitions—'Kumhar Para' (Potters' Enclave), the Traditional Technology Park, and the Himalayan Village—appreciating India's rich folk heritage, traditional dwellings, and tribal lifestyles.
During the visit, the delegates participated in the lighting of the 'Aal-Vilakku' lamp, a traditional heritage piece from Kerala. Crafted using the traditional 'lost-wax' technique, this massive bronze lamp stands 15 feet tall, weighs 1,830 kilograms, and features 1,001 lamp niches, symbolizing knowledge, prosperity, and spiritual awakening.
The spirit of India's "Unity in Diversity" was impressively showcased to the delegates within the museum complex. The cultural programme commenced with performances of 'Navras', 'Kali Stavan', and 'Narmada Ashtapadi' in the Kathak dance style, bringing Indian classical aesthetics to life.
This was followed by a captivating rendition of traditional 'Tati' folk songs by Chakhesang Naga artists from Nagaland. The event concluded with a special runway presentation titled 'Shikhar se Tat Tak' (From Peaks to Coasts) by the National Institute of Design (NID MP), which depicted India's geographical and cultural journey through attire. This visit and cultural event left an indelible mark on the international stage, highlighting India's folk traditions and civilizational heritage.