A new chapter in the celebration of India’s cultural heritage began with the inauguration of the Bharat Muni Deergha at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi. This thoughtfully curated exhibition space opened its doors with the launch of the exhibition Faces of Traditions and Divinity & Majesty: Masterpieces from the Lance Dane Collection, featuring a stunning array of masks that reflect the depth and diversity of India’s artistic traditions.
The exhibition, drawn from the Lance Dane Collection preserved in the IGNCA archives, invites viewers into a vibrant world of visual storytelling. The event was inaugurated by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary of IGNCA, who praised the tireless efforts of the Conservation and Cultural Archives Division and all supporting teams. In his address, Dr. Joshi expressed a heartfelt sentiment—that in the pursuit of beauty, even the oft-neglected corners of a space can be transformed into meaningful venues for cultural exchange. It is with this belief that the Bharat Muni Deergha was envisioned: not simply as a gallery, but as a living space where tradition meets contemporary appreciation.
Dr. Joshi shared his hope that the IGNCA will continue to evolve into one of India’s foremost cultural institutions, fostering dialogue between the past and present. His vision is rooted in inclusivity—creating a space where scholars, researchers, and everyday visitors alike can engage with India’s rich cultural fabric.
The spirit of innovation and dedication was echoed by Prof. Achal Pandya, who credited Dr. Joshi’s leadership as the driving force behind the initiative. He recounted the journey from an empty building at Janpath to a thriving cultural hub that now houses not only the Darshnam 1 and 2 galleries but also the newly added Bharat Muni Deergha. Prof. Pandya also introduced two dynamic initiatives—‘Mask of the Week’ and ‘Object of the Week’—which aim to continuously refresh the exhibition experience, drawing curiosity and sustained interest from all who visit.
As India navigates a fast-paced modern world, spaces like the Bharat Muni Deergha stand as gentle reminders of the stories, spirits, and symbols that have shaped its soul. Through this effort, the IGNCA continues its noble mission—bringing heritage closer to the hearts of people, one mask at a time.