Ancient arts festival explores spirituality, healing, and consciousness through diverse traditions

Delhi: Held from November 8–10, the 8th International Ancient Arts Festival and Symposium, organized by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in partnership with the Rays of Wisdom Society and the Ministry of Culture, celebrated the spiritual and therapeutic dimensions of ancient arts. The event featured an art exhibition, a symposium, and captivating performances exploring the intersection of art, consciousness, and healing.

Highlighting dharma and consciousness

In his address, Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, emphasized the depth of ‘dharma’ in the Sanatan context, explaining, “Dharma is a way of life that extends beyond the family to one’s environment and ecology.” He elaborated on the concept of consciousness as uniquely interpreted in Indian philosophy, describing it as “a single, universal consciousness that also resides within the individual self.” Art, according to Dr. Joshi, is an expression of truth, existing beyond entertainment or personal pleasure: “It serves to internalize divine essence within.”

Keynote on Indian epics and arts

Dr. Madhu Khanna, a renowned scholar and keynote speaker, highlighted the integrative role of Indian epics in the arts. She stated, “The Ramayana unites diverse art forms, representing continuity even amid cultural shifts.” According to Dr. Khanna, the artistic expression of ‘rasa’ (aesthetic delight) and ‘bhava’ (emotional response) plays a crucial role in the quest for the true self, bridging literature and visual arts to create profound emotional connections.

Cultural Ministry’s commitment to heritage

Amita Sarabhai, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, affirmed the Ministry’s dedication to preserving India’s rich heritage. “This festival embodies our commitment to enriching cultural awareness, especially among younger generations,” she said, underscoring the government’s support in promoting cultural heritage and awareness.

The journey of ‘Antar Yatra’

Dr. Reela Hota’s performance, ‘Antar Yatra’, mesmerized attendees on the festival’s opening day. A dance drama rooted in yogic philosophy, ‘Antar Yatra’ utilized Odissi, Chhau, and contemporary ballet forms to symbolize the journey of consciousness through the chakras, culminating in the state of ‘Moksha’. Dr. Hota described the piece as “an artistic exploration of transformation and unity with universal consciousness.”

Engaging sessions on spiritual and therapeutic arts

Esteemed speakers from diverse backgrounds gathered for engaging sessions that explored spirituality, healing, and the arts’ transformative power. Highlights included talks on Baul Philosophy and Healing, Kundalini in Poetry, and Devotional Music and Spirituality. Guru Ramli Ibrahim, Chairman of Malaysia’s Sutra Foundation, remarked on the universal principles within Indian art forms, while Prof. Swati Pal of Janki Devi College discussed “Drama Movement and Therapeutics.”

Festival celebrates holistic art and healing

This three-day festival underscored art’s therapeutic role in mental and spiritual well-being. With events, performances, and discussions, the 8th International Ancient Arts Festival and Symposium celebrated ancient arts’ timeless link to holistic health, connecting diverse cultural expressions for personal and social transformation.