Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhu inaugurates “Master’s Universe” exhibition in Shimla

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 1 (ANI): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu on Sunday inaugurated the art exhibition “Master’s Universe” at the Gaiety Theatre in Shimla, marking the 150th birth anniversary of Russian artist Nicholas Roerich.

This 25-day exhibition aims to showcase the art, cultural heritage, and works of the renowned Russian scholar and artist Nicholas Roerich.

The exhibition is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from September 1 to September 25 and is free to the public.

The exhibition is organized jointly by the International Center of the Roerichs (Moscow) and the International Roerich Memorial Trust (Naggar, Kullu, HP), in collaboration with the Language Art and Culture Department of Himachal Pradesh, the exhibition commemorates the 150th anniversary of Roerich’s birth.

Larisa Surgina, the curator of the International Roerich Memorial Trust, said that the exhibition features over 100 photographs and banners showcasing the life and contributions of Nicholas Roerich, the renowned Russian artist.

“This exhibition, ‘Master’s Universe,’ is dedicated to the 150th anniversary of Nicholas Roerich, great Russian artist, philosopher, and public figure. This exhibition tells about his life and creative work. This exhibition was specially prepared by the International Center of Roerichs in Moscow for India. It was opened in March in New Delhi, and today we are opening it in Shimla. We brought here more than 100 photographs banners which tell about life and creative work of Nicholas Roerich,” Surgina told ANI.

Surgina also said that the exhibition is a symbol of the friendship between India and Russia.

“We are thankful to the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, the government, and the Department of Language Art and Culture for full support in bringing this exhibition here to Shimla. Nicholas Roerich created the base of our close ties between Russia and India. So this exhibition is a symbol of our friendship,” Surgina told ANI.

Pankaj Lalit, Director of the Himachal Pradesh Language, Art, and Culture Department, said that Roerich’s message of peace remains as relevant today as ever, particularly in times of global turmoil and terrorism.

“A significant exhibition is launching today to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Nicholas Roerich. The International Center of Roerichs in Moscow, in collaboration with the Himachal Pradesh Language and Culture Department, has organized this event. Roerich, who spent nearly 20 years in Himachal Pradesh and produced around 8,000 paintings, made a profound impact with his Himalayan art. He was not just a painter but also a peace ambassador and philosopher. His son, Svetoslav Roerich, also a renowned painter, continued his legacy and further strengthened cultural ties between India and Russia,” Lalit told ANI.

“This exhibition is open to the public daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm until September 25 and is free of charge. Roerich’s message of peace remains as relevant today as ever, particularly in times of global turmoil and terrorism,” Lalit told ANI.

Alexander V Stetsenko, Vice President of the International Center of the Roerichs (Moscow), said that Nicholas Roerich believed that the future connection between India and Russia is in its cultural heritage.

“During his central Asian expedition, Nicholas Roerich concluded that the only point that helps the civilisation to survive during the wars is the protection of cultural heritage. Only the basics of culture allow civilisation to move forward and survive the hard times. Russia is a strong country so Russia will overcome whichever troubles come. Nicholas Roerich believed that the future connection between India and Russia is in its cultural heritage,” Stetsenko said.

Chief Minister Sukhu reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship between India and Russia and promised full support from the state government to strengthen the Roerich Trust.

“Nicholas Roerich came to India before independence and returned in 1928 settling in Himachal Pradesh, he nurtured an unbreakable bond with Indian culture and Hindu traditions… India and Russia have been friends for a long time. Whenever India faced a crisis, Russia always stood by us and supported us. Our cultures are similar. Our friendship is centuries old. We will strengthen the Roerich Trust and provide full cooperation from the government,” Sukhu said.

A young visitor praised Roerich’s work, stating that it offers valuable lessons for the youth.

He said, “This exhibition showcases how Nicholas Roerich integrated Indian culture into his art, reflecting Indian civilization. Young people like me need to understand our cultural heritage. Roerich’s work is not just about art; it’s a lesson for the youth.”