Travelling to a place, you’ve never been to before, brings in the realisation that there’s a world out there that’s quite unlike yours. This is especially true in a country like India, where at every few kilometers, you’ll even notice a change in dialects.
And, while there are a ton of ways to set out on that adventure and explore these new worlds, nothing beats diving into history and appreciating that we’ve come a long way.
Giving visitors this very opportunity to glimpse past treasures, Goa’s Aguad Port and Jail Complex, in Sinquerim, has become home to three unique expositions showcased under the banner ‘India’s Civilizational Marvels’.
Speaking about his uniquely organised presentation, renowned restorer and antiquarian, Raghvendra Singh, expresses how the exhibition has been curated with a deep dive into the essence of our tradition in mind, that allows visitors to connect with India's Sabhyata (culture).
“It offers insights into the subtleties of the country’s legacy and sparks curiosity about the treasures hidden in Indian manuscripts, sculptures and paintings,” he informs.
"By embodying universal themes such as love and music, and emphasising their classical relevance, we especially hope to engage the younger generations,” he adds.
Goa’s Aguad Port and Jail Complex, in Sinquerim, has become home to three unique expositions showcased under the banner ‘India’s Civilizational Marvels’.
Having previously headed nationally significant institutions like The National Archives of India and The National Museum, Raghvendra will be hosted at the Warehouse and Customs House Galleries at The Aguad.
“We aim to cultivate a deeper appreciation and understanding of our rich heritage and culture, which are like vast oceans we've only begun to explore,” says Singh.
Group CEO at Waterfront Experiences, Naveen Chopra, shares his dedication to presenting narratives that not just educate, but also fascinate.
He says, “The ‘India’s Civilizational Marvels’ exhibition, curated by Singh is a testament to our commitment. It invites young and old to immerse themselves in the profound depths of Indian culture and history, showcasing the timeless relevance and universal appeal of our civilizational milestones.”
Highlighting the wealth and diversity of India’s heritage, the exhibition, literally lets you teleport into the past through a stunning and visually appealing display.
1. INDIAN FASHION, TIMELESS ELEGANCE
Offering a captivating glance into the heart of Indian couture across centuries, the Indian Fashion, Timeless Elegance expo, celebrates the country’s traditional splendour and intricate craftsmanship.
Spanning across 2,500 years, the exhibition showcases the art of fashion beyond mere necessity, featuring exquisite gold jewellery, detailed embroidery and classic adornments, including headgear and footwear.
Presenting a narrative that challenges the conventional Western perspective, it displays a journey that not only honours the past, but also inspires modern trends, proving that Indian couture is elegant and truly timeless.
2. SAHITYA CHITRAVALI
The Sahitya Chitravali (which translates to ‘Literature in Illustration’) expo at Aguada invites visitors to embark on a visual journey through India’s epic tales and historical narratives, blending the worlds of literature and art.
Designed to spark curiosity and appreciation, the exhibition celebrates themes that resonate universally, transcending age and time.
It highlights classics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, along with themes of Sringar and Sangeet, and dives deep into the stories that have sculpted Indian culture.
Through the ancient language of Sanskrit, alongside India's diverse regional languages, this exhibition connects us to a literary heritage that has defined India’s cultural and social identity.
Through the ancient language of Sanskrit, alongside India's diverse regional languages, this exhibition connects us to a literary heritage that has defined India’s cultural and social identity.
3. KAMAL
The third display, Kamal, explores the profound symbolism of the lotus in Indian culture, underscoring its omnipresence in religious iconography and mythology. It captures the lotus' significant place in Indian art and literature, affirming its central role in the spiritual and cultural fabric of India and beyond.
As India's national flower, the lotus represents purity, enlightenment and detachment, playing a pivotal role in the narratives of various deities.
This symbol of divine beauty and purity is not confined to Hinduism, but extends to Buddhism and Jainism, and is revered in other cultures such as Chinese, Japanese and Egyptian.
But, that’s not all, apart from this exhibition, the Aguad Port and Jail Complex is also home to the state-of-the-art digital museum, the Aguad Interactive Museum.
This symbol of divine beauty and purity is not confined to Hinduism, but extends to Buddhism and Jainism, and is revered in other cultures such as Chinese, Japanese and Egyptian.
The renovated complex seamlessly blends history and culture, celebrating Goa's vibrant identity and serving as a hub for cultural exchanges amidst picturesque landscapes, so do check it out.
DETAILS:
ENTRY: Visitors can access the ‘India’s Civilizational Marvels’ exhibition using their Aguad entrance ticket. No additional charges.
TIMINGS: Open daily, from 10 am to 8 pm
FOR MORE INFO: Visit aguad.in or follow Aguad on Instagram @aguadgoa