A STUNNING SAND ART DEPICTION OF BIHAR’S CULTURAL HERITAGE

A STUNNING SAND ART DEPICTION OF BIHAR’S CULTURAL HERITAGE

20-NOV-ENG 6

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

PATNA--------------------------The stunning sand art depicting the mythological Gaj-Grah battle, created by Chhapra sand artist Ashok Kumar, has become a center of attraction at the Sonepur Fair. Sand artist Ashok Kumar of Chhapra explains his art at the Sonepur Fair. - Photo: Amar Ujala

The Harihar Kshetra Sonepur Fair is known for its cultural and historical splendor. Meanwhile, the stunning sand art displayed at the residence of Saran District Magistrate Aman Sameer, located in the English Bazaar area of ​​the fair, has captured the attention of visitors.

This sand art, created by Ashok Kumar, a renowned sand artist from North Bihar and a resident of Chhapra, depicts the mythological Gaj-Grah battle in a highly vivid manner. The artwork depicts the Graha attacking a struggling elephant in the water and Lord Vishnu slaying the Graha with the Sudarshan Chakra in a moment of crisis, all of which are intricately etched.

The second part of the sand art features beautiful depictions of horses and bulls, the hallmarks of the Sonepur Fair, reflecting the fair's historic tradition of animal trade. The artist also beautifully depicted the map of Bihar, the official logos of the Saran District Administration, the Tourism Department, the Government of Bihar, and the Sonepur Fair, adding a cultural dimension to the theme.

Sand artist Ashok Kumar explained that this work reflects the integration of the Sonepur Fair's historical, cultural, and mythological heritage with modernity. Visitors to the fair will experience the beautiful confluence of myth, history, and the present through this art.

Young artist Sonu Kumar also played a key role in bringing this artwork to life. He provided technical and creative support in shaping the structure.

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