‘Living Temple’ Inaugurated – A Grand 3-Day Art Extravaganza Celebrating Indian Temple Art and Heritage
‘Living Temple’ is a celebration of the living legacy of India’s temple culture, and its inaugural day has set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Hyderabad, February 28, 2025: The much-awaited ‘Living Temple’ exhibition was successfully inaugurated today at T-Works, Raidurgam, Hyderabad, marking the beginning of a unique celebration of India’s temple art, culture, and heritage. The inaugural ceremony was graced by Smt. Smita Sabharwal, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government (Tourism, Culture, Heritage, and Youth Affairs Department, Telangana), MamidiHarikrishna, Director of the Culture Department, Government of Telangana, and eminent archaeologist, Former Regional Director (North), Archaeological Survey of India, KK Muhammed.
Curated by Annapurna Madipadiga and supported by Telangana Tourism, ‘Living Temple’ brought together over 30 renowned artists from across the country to celebrate the rich legacy of Indian temples. With more than 100 exquisite artworks on display, the exhibition showcases a beautiful fusion of traditional temple art and contemporary artistic expressions.
Speaking on the occasion, Smita Sabharwal shared, “This has to become a calendar event where both young and older artists come together. We promise our support as we go along.”
Eminent archaeologist KK Muhammed said, “There are various types of heritage tours, but you need an innovative approach to attract people. You must make these monuments living heritage, and visiting them should be an experience like in Singapore and China.”
Artist and art director ThotaTharani emphasized the importance of preserving both our heritage and nature. He explained how he ensures there is no debris when his set is dismantled. “You must respect the place,” he added.
"This three-day event has already left visitors in awe with its incredible collection of artworks, alongside engaging panel discussions on – Art – Heritage Tourism – The Missing Link, captivating performances, and inspiring cultural displays. The exhibition features a diverse group of participating artists, including ThotaTharani, Amar Ramesh, Drdha, Charanjeet, ParnaviBangar, RayannaGiridharGowd, SangamVankhade, Vinod Daroz, and many others. Their works represent a blend of various mediums and styles, each telling a unique story of temple art and its preservation."
Additionally, the event highlights the contributions of experts such as archaeologist KK Muhammed, photographer Amar Ramesh, and artist DrdhaVrata, who have all dedicated their lives to documenting, preserving, and reviving the ancient heritage of Indian temples.
As the inaugural day wraps up, visitors are invited to continue experiencing the grand 3-day extravaganza, which runs until March 2, 2025. The exhibition is open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM at T-Works, Silpa Gram, Raidurgam, Hyderabad.
‘Living Temple’ is a celebration of the living legacy of India’s temple culture, and its inaugural day has set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
