By Rafat Quadri
BILKULONLINE
Ahmedabad, Aug 5: In a historic and culturally significant event, Sompura Handicrafts, the first art gallery in Ahmedabad dedicated to showcasing ancient Indian tradition and culture, was inaugurated by the esteemed Anantashree Vibhushit Paschimmanya Dwarka Shardapithadhiswara Jagadguru Shankaracharyaji Param Pujya Swamishri Sadananda Saraswatiji. The inauguration ceremony was a grand affair, drawing dignitaries, artists, and art enthusiasts from across the state.
A Tribute to Indian Heritage:
The brainchild of Mehulbhai Sompura, a member of the illustrious Sompura family known for their construction of grand temples worldwide, the gallery is a testament to Indian architecture, sculpture, and iconography. Integrating modern science and technology with traditional art forms, the gallery aims to educate and inspire a new generation about the rich cultural and architectural heritage of India.
Sompura art takes its name from the Sompura Brahmin community, renowned for their expertise in temple architecture. The Sompura lineage traces its origins back to the 11th century, when they migrated to Gujarat from Karnataka. The Sompuras, with their intricate understanding of sculpture, stonework, and architecture, were entrusted with the task of building and renovating temples in the region.
Among its many artistic treasures, Sompura art stands out as a remarkable expression of creativity and craftsmanship. Sompura artisans, known for their architectural mastery, have played a significant role in shaping the state’s architectural landscape. Their contributions can be witnessed in several iconic temples across India and abroad in many countries.
Bridging the Past and Present:
Speaking at the inauguration, Mehulbhai expressed his heartfelt gratitude and sense of honor at having the gallery inaugurated by Jagadguru Shankaracharyaji. “We feel a great sense of respect and honor as the Art Gallery is inaugurated today by the boon of Anantashree Vibhushit Paschimmanya Dwarka Shardapithadhiswar Jagadguru Shankaracharyaji Param Pujya Swamishree Sadanand Saraswatiji. Through this art gallery, we aim to spread awareness about our art and culture among people interested in art, culture, and ancient architecture across Gujarat and to acquaint the youth of the state with our rich heritage, culture, and architecture,” said Mehulbhai.
Showcasing Timeless Craftsmanship:
The Sompura Handicrafts gallery is designed to offer visitors a deep dive into the intricacies of Indian architectural art. It features a collection of delicate, curvaceous, and graceful sculptural works that have been meticulously crafted by Sompura sculptors. Using traditional tools such as stitches and hammers, these artisans have transformed tough materials like stone into immortal pieces of art that reflect the magnificence of Hindu temples and Jain derasars.
A Vision for the Future:
The objective of establishing this gallery goes beyond mere display. It aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indian architectural art, culture, and literature, especially among the art-loving youth and emerging artists of Gujarat. By providing a platform that bridges the ancient with the contemporary, Sompura Handicrafts seeks to keep the rich traditions of Indian art alive and thriving.
A Positive Response Anticipated:
Mehulbhai is confident that the unique initiative will receive an overwhelmingly positive response. “I am confident that our unique initiative will get a very positive response from people across the state,” he stated. The gallery is expected to become a cultural landmark in Ahmedabad, drawing visitors from all walks of life who share a passion for India’s artistic heritage.
The inauguration of Sompura Handicrafts marks a significant milestone in preserving and promoting the ancient traditions of Indian art and architecture. With the blessings of Jagadguru Shankaracharyaji and the vision of the Sompura family, this gallery is set to become a beacon of cultural education and inspiration for generations to come.
Visitors at the gallery found the collection on display as extremely exquisite and exceptionally created marvels of hand made art.
Come visit Sompura Handicrafts in Ahmedabad to explore and purchase exquisite pieces of ancient Indian art and architecture, meticulously crafted by the renowned Sompura artisans, and bring a piece of this timeless heritage into your home.
(Rafat Quadri can be contacted at editorbilkul@gmail.com)