Global heritage: India showcases ‘Culture Corridor - G20 Digital Museum’ to world leaders at Bharat Mandapam

The grand stage of Bharat Mandapam, hosting the G20 summit, has unveiled a remarkable international project known as the ‘Culture Corridor - G20 Digital Museum.’ This unique exhibit celebrates and represents the shared heritage of G20 member nations and 9 invitee countries, showcasing iconic cultural objects and heritage from around the world. The Culture Corridor is not only a visual spectacle, but also a powerful platform for fostering understanding, appreciation of diverse cultural expressions, knowledge sharing, inclusivity, and equality, all contributing to a sense of shared identity. A G20-Themed Celebration Aligned with India’s G20 theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and the Culture Working Group’s (CWG) flagship campaign ‘Culture Unites All,’ the Culture Corridor was inaugurated on September 9, 2023. Here is a glimpse of the remarkable cultural treasures featured in the Culture Corridor: India - ASHTADHYAYI A manuscript of the Ashtadhyayi, composed by the renowned grammarian Panini in the 5th-6th century BCE, showcases the science of Vedic phonetics and grammar, anticipating computer programming by over two millennia. Indonesia - BATIK SARONG TEXTILES Batik attire holds deep cultural significance, with intricate patterns crafted by applying melted wax onto fabric. Indonesia’s Batik heritage spans regions, and it was designated as a masterpiece of the ‘Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity’ by UNESCO. Brazil - MODEL OF THE NATIONAL PARLIAMENT PALACE The National Parliament Palace in Brasília, designed by iconic architect Oscar Niemeyer, stands as a symbol of democratic spirit in Brazil. Argentina - PONCHO A handmade poncho from Catamarca province represents a blend of history, technique, and community artistry, embodying the traditions of the region. Australia - YIŊAPUŊAPU AT DJARRAKPI This painting by master artist Narritjin Maymuru captures the rich cultural tradition and folklore of the Yolŋu people in northeastern Arnhem Land. Canada - SEA MONSTER TRANSFORMATION MASK Master carver Calvin Hunt’s Sea Monster Transformation Mask reflects the rich indigenous heritage of Canada and its indigenous artistry. China - FAHUA LIDDED JAR WITH LOTUS POND DESIGN This rare fahua ware reveals intricate designs and reflects China’s artistic craftsmanship. European Union - MARIE SKŁODOWSKA-CURIE A bronze statue pays homage to the legendary scientist Marie Curie, highlighting her significant contributions to science and her inspirational impact on women in the field. France - AUXERRE VASE WITH BLUE BACKGROUND An exquisite 1912 Auxerre vase from Manufacture de Sèvres showcases French porcelain expertise. Germany - VW BEETLE MINIATURE MODELS A miniature replica of the Volkswagen Old Beetle celebrates Germany’s engineering prowess and the iconic “Bug.” Italy - BELVEDERE APOLLO A bronze statuette captures the essence of the Renaissance period and its fascination with the human body. Japan - NENDOROID HATSUNE MIKU A figurine clad in a 300-year-old Kōrin Kimono represents a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern fandom. Republic of Korea - THE ARTISAN-CRAFTED HAT, GAT AND HEADPIECE Traditional Korean headwear symbolizes cultural depth and legacy, transcending modern boundaries. Mexico - SCULPTURE OF DUALITY: QUETZALCOATL AND TLALTECUHTLI This sculpture represents the rich mythological heritage of the Aztec civilization, featuring the Feathered Serpent God and the Earth Goddess. Russia - TRADITIONAL KHAKASS WOMEN’S DRESS A traditional Khakass woman’s attire reflects cultural progress and goddess-inspired customs. Saudi Arabia - TAYMA STELE WITH ARAMAIC INSCRIPTION A 6th-century BCE Tayma Stele tells the story of temple appointments and ancient Arabian history. South Africa - CAST OF AUSTRALOPITHECUS AFRICANUS (MRS. PLES) This cast of one of the earliest hominins highlights Africa’s role as the cradle of humanity. Turkiye - GÖBEKLİ TEPE STELE A modern glass replica of a T-shaped limestone pillar provides insights into the Neolithic transition in Upper Mesopotamia. United Kingdom - FULL-SIZE COLOUR REPRODUCTION OF THE ENTIRE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT, MAGNA CARTA The Magna Carta, a historic document, laid the groundwork for democracy in England and the world. USA - TYRANNY OF MIRRORS The ‘Tyranny of Mirrors’ painting by Sanford Biggers reflects the importance of quilts on the Underground Railroad and their role in guiding people to freedom. Bangladesh - BUST OF SHEIKH MUJIBUR RAHMAN A bust of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation of Bangladesh, commemorates his contributions to the nation’s independence. Egypt  - THE GOLDEN MASK AND MODERN CEREMONIAL CHAIR OF KING TUTANKHAMUN King Tutankhamun’s golden mask and throne reveal the opulence and divine authority of ancient Egypt. Mauritius - RAVANN The Ravann instrument symbolizes the cultural resilience and the enduring power of music in Mauritius. Netherlands - ZIG-ZAG CHAIR Gerrit Rietveld’s Zig-Zag Chair embodies Dutch design principles of simplicity and functionality. Nigeria - HEAD OF QUEEN IDIA AND MALE HEAD FROM IFE Bronze artifacts from Benin and Ife reflect Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. Oman - SOFT STONE BOX WITH NARRATIVE DECORATION A soft stone vessel from Oman showcases ancient craftsmanship and cultural motifs. Singapore - DIFFERENT PACKAGINGS OF NEWATER AND NEWBREW Singapore’s NEWater innovation highlights water sustainability and its role as a global model. Spain - ABANICOS (HAND FANS) Spanish fans exhibit ‘Diseñar el aire’ reimagines traditional fans through innovative designs, uniting history with modern materials. UAE - REPLICA OF A HORSE GOLD BRIDLE A replica horse bridle from Mleiha reflects the UAE’s role as a cultural melting pot with rich historical connections.