Chef Vikas Khanna Brings 1,800 Kg Replica Of Konark Wheel To Times Square
Amidst the vibrant ambiance of Times Square illuminated with the colors of the Indian tricolour and a palpable sense of fervor, a remarkable celebration took place in honor of India’s 77th Independence Day. The event featured the unveiling of a symbolic masterpiece – a 1,800 kg ‘Chakra’ sculpture, crafted to resemble the renowned Konark wheel.
This monumental event attracted a significant turnout from the Indian-American and diaspora communities, who congregated at the iconic New York City landmark to commemorate India’s Independence Day on the specified date.
Leading the occasion, Randhir Jaiswal, the Consul General of India in New York, had the honor of unfurling the Indian tricolour against the backdrop of Times Square. The atmosphere was charged with the reverberations of powerful chants including ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ (Hail Mother India), ‘Vande Matram’ (I bow to thee, Mother), and ‘Jai Hind’ (Long Live India), along with the resonant notes of patriotic songs. Attendees waved both the Indian and American flags, bridging cultures and nations in celebration.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the ‘Chakra’ sculpture, which holds great significance. Modeled after the famed Konark wheel, this sculpture symbolizes unity, strength, and the spirit of India’s historical and cultural heritage.
The event at Times Square not only marked a pivotal moment in celebrating India’s independence but also demonstrated the unity and enthusiasm of the Indian-American and diaspora community in the United States. By honoring the occasion with such grandeur and symbolism, participants paid homage to their homeland while fostering a sense of togetherness and shared identity, even on foreign soil.
The flag hoisting ceremony held in Times Square was organized by the prominent Indian diaspora organization, the Federation of Indian Associations – NY NJ CT NE (FIA). This event was graced by the presence of renowned figures from various fields who gathered to celebrate India’s 77th Independence Day.
Distinguished attendees included Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Michelin star chef, filmmaker, restaurateur, and entrepreneur Vikas Khanna, as well as FIA Chairman Ankur Vaidya, FIA President Kenny Desai, and other FIA officials. Representatives from the Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), including Board Members Anil Bansal and Rajeev Kaul, along with Vice Chairman Rakesh Kaul, were also present.
During this momentous occasion, Vikas Khanna unveiled a specially crafted Chakra Sculpture. The Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC), in collaboration with The Consulate General of India in New York and The City of New York, orchestrated the Inauguration Ceremony of The Indian Independence Exhibition. This exhibition featured the captivating “Chakra Sculpture,” symbolizing India’s profound cultural heritage and the shared values that unite the two nations.
Vikas Khanna, speaking about the event, expressed the honor of bringing the Konark Chakra to the heart of New York City to commemorate India’s Independence Day. The Chakra, representing a wheel, stands as a radiant emblem of India’s legacy, wisdom, and timelessness. Its display at the iconic Times Square signifies not only the celebration of India’s diverse culture but also the enduring friendship that binds the United States and India.
This event serves as a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Indian diaspora, showcasing their dedication to upholding their heritage and strengthening the connections between their home country and the United States. The symbolic Chakra Sculpture stands as a visual representation of India’s cultural essence and acts as a beacon of unity, bridging nations and cultures in a celebration of shared values.
Vikas Khanna, who played a pivotal role in bringing the Chakra sculpture to New York City, emphasized the deep cultural significance that this sculpture holds. He described it as a faithful replica of one of the twenty-four Chakras that adorn the Konark Temple, dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
The sculpture carries within it the essence of India’s history, resilience, and unity. Beyond that, it embodies a profound reverence for nature and the sun, symbolizing a connection to the cosmic forces that have shaped India’s spiritual and cultural fabric over millennia.
Khanna’s dedication to making this project a reality is evident in the years of effort he invested. Having worked on this endeavor for nearly five years, he expressed that the unveiling of the sculpture at Times Square on India’s Independence Day is a dream come true and an emotional moment for him. The sculpture represents not only artistry but also a tangible connection to India’s heritage and a reflection of its artistic prowess.
For Khanna, the sculpture stands as an opportunity to showcase the “power of Indian arts” on an international stage. The project, initiated before the COVID-19 pandemic, required the dedicated efforts of skilled artisans who labored diligently to bring this creation to life. In the presence of the monumental Chakra sculpture, Khanna marveled at the intricate craftsmanship displayed on this majestic piece.
While the sculpture will eventually find its place in Khanna’s upcoming restaurant in New York City, it will continue to serve as a visual testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
For the diaspora and younger generations, the sculpture offers a tangible connection to India’s roots, serving as an emblem of purity, majesty, and the enduring spirit that unites the Indian-American community. The unveiling of the Chakra sculpture is not just a commemoration of Independence Day; it’s a celebration of art, culture, and the bonds that connect nations and people across the world.
Vikas Khanna, reflecting on the unveiling of the Chakra Sculpture on August 15, expressed his immense pride in representing India and showcasing the artisans, history, and culture through this remarkable piece of stone. He emphasized the profound significance of the day, acknowledging the sacrifices, resilience, and determination of the ancestors who paved the way for a free nation where individuals can pursue their dreams. Khanna’s sentiments resonated with the celebrations on August 15, a day to honor those who contributed to India’s power and progress.
Rajeev Kaul highlighted the Chakra Sculpture’s presence in Times Square as a testament to the enduring friendship and shared values that bind India and the United States together. This symbolic sculpture stands as a representation of unity and the deep connections that transcend geographical boundaries.
The Chakra Sculpture itself, measuring 8 feet by 6 feet and weighing approximately 1800 kilograms (4,000 pounds), is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity behind its creation. A faithful replica of the Konark Chakra, an emblem from the revered Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha, it embodies the cultural richness and architectural legacy of India.
The original Konark Chakra is a meticulously carved stone wheel among 24 such wheels adorning the Konark Sun Temple. Despite the challenges faced by the temple throughout history, including invasions and natural calamities, its enduring spirit has persevered. The intricate carvings and symbolic significance of the Konark Chakra continue to captivate visitors, serving as a poignant reminder of India’s architectural and cultural heritage. The Chakra symbolizes the enduring power and movement of the sun, which sustains life and embodies values shared by the city of New York.
The sculpture will be on display at Times Square for a week, providing an opportunity for visitors and tourists to engage with its captivating history and symbolism. As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the Consulate General of India in New York and the Permanent Mission of India to the UN hosted flag-hoisting ceremonies and special receptions. In a show of solidarity, the Empire State Building was illuminated with the hues of the Indian tricolour, further underscoring the celebration of India’s 77th Independence Day.
