Restoration of Navras Sculptures at Lucknow University’s Arts College
Arts College’s rare Navras sculptures set for restoration after 60 years
The Times Of India
Image: The Times Of India
Lucknow University’s Arts College is set to restore a unique collection of 'Navras' sculptures created by artist Shridhar Mahapatra, which have been neglected for over 60 years. This restoration is part of a ₹29 crore (approximately $3.5 million USD) proposal aimed at conserving artworks and heritage structures at the 115-year-old institution.
- 01The Navras sculptures depict nine emotions from the ancient Sanskrit text 'Natya Shastra'.
- 02Shridhar Mahapatra, the artist, was an instructor at the college in the 1930s and came from a family renowned for sculptural heritage.
- 03The restoration project will also include works by other notable artists associated with the college, such as Avtar Singh Panwar and Sudhir Ranjan Khastgir.
- 04Assistant professor Vibhavari Singh highlighted Mahapatra's craftsmanship, recalling that his sculptures were so lifelike that they attracted pigeons.
- 05The college is also working on a coffee-table book to document its history and architectural legacy.
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Lucknow University’s Arts College is embarking on a significant restoration project for a rare set of 'Navras' sculptures created by acclaimed artist Shridhar Mahapatra. This initiative marks a crucial step in addressing the neglect these artworks have faced for over 60 years. The restoration is part of a ₹29 crore (approximately $3.5 million USD) proposal submitted to the Uttar Pradesh government, aimed at conserving the college's rich artistic heritage. The Navras sculptures embody the nine emotions described in the ancient Sanskrit text, the 'Natya Shastra', which forms the foundation of Indian performing arts. Mahapatra, who joined the college in the 1930s, is celebrated for his exceptional skills and comes from a family known for its sculptural legacy in Odisha. Along with the Navras sculptures, the restoration will also encompass works by other prominent artists linked to the college, such as Avtar Singh Panwar and Sudhir Ranjan Khastgir. The college is additionally seeking to enhance its heritage campus with facade lighting and is preparing a coffee-table book documenting its architectural history.
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The restoration of the Navras sculptures will enhance the cultural and artistic heritage of Lucknow University, benefiting students and art enthusiasts.
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