IEP Chandigarh, September 7
The 4th Sherpa meeting of G-20 countries, which began in ITC Grand Bharat resort of district Nuh on 3rd September, ended with showcasing some of the most vibrant Indian classical and light music, instrumental orchestra celebrating its music diversity composed by Shri Madho Prasad followed by gala dinner.
On the last night of September 6, the universal thread of music kept the spectators spellbound through a symphony of diverse Indian classical and light music. The presentation began with Chaturanga; an amalgamation of various styles and forms of music that is presented by teenagers, adolescents and the disabled. It was followed by Raga Yaman, which expresses the optimism of a lover and his beloved. This musical combination is an artful blend of pitch around the tones of the raga. The cultural night ended with Raga Kalavati, a simple but modern pentatonic classical Hindustani raga. It is a midnight raga rendition and is generally associated with the pangs of separation and nostalgia.
Since the 4th and final Sherpa meeting was held in district Nuh of Haryana, it provided opportunity to showcase Haryana, especially, it’s rich cultural heritage and traditions before the foreign delegates through variety of cultural programs based on Haryana’s folk. The Haryanavi ‘Pagri’ (head gear ) was tied on the heads of delegates as a mark of respect. Pagri is like crown ; a symbol of ‘shan’ ( pride) of Haryana, which is tied on the head of a person whom utmost honour is to be given. The delegates were also apprised by the strengths and achievements of Haryana through a short audio visual documentary prepared by Information, Public Relations, Languages & Culture Department of the state. This documentary was kept running continuously throughout the day at the exhibition stall strategically placed at the entrance of Prithvi Ballroom of the resort, a place fixed for meals and cafeteria of the delegates. Folders highlighting strengths of Haryana state were also distributed among the delegates. The model of ‘Virat Swaroop’ of Lord Krishna, who have a believed to have shown his viraat Swaroop ( huge form ) to Arjuna while giving celestial message of holy Gita in Kurukshetra of Haryana, was also placed adjoining to the exhibition stall.
The police of both the districts, Nuh and Gurugram was seen vigilant and law and order was strictly maintained. Police presence was seen on entire stretch from Delhi- Haryana border to the venue. The traffic was also well regulated, no traffic jam occurred on this stretch during the days of the meeting.
During their stay here, the Sherpas of G-20 member countries and representatives from other invitee countries had deliberations in 12 sessions, spread over three days to finalise the Leaders’ Declaration for the forthcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi. Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, led these intense deliberations. The text of the Leaders’ Declaration will advocate for a fairer and more sustainable world for all. In addition to the formal meetings, the Sherpas had a chance to foster deeper relationships in the informal setting of a ‘Sofa Talk.’ These candid conversations are a vital aspect of diplomacy, building trust and collaboration. They allow representatives to connect on a personal level, strengthening the bonds of understanding and cooperation among nations. The delegates began their day with yoga session to rejuvenate their minds and bodies.
India’s Sherpa Amitabh Kant said that India’s G20 Presidency has been truly significant, not only for showcasing our rich cultural heritage, but also for its unwavering commitment to representing the interests of the Global South and advocating for a fairer and more sustainable world. This presidency has seen India’s advocacy for the permanent membership of the African Union, a dedicated Women’s Working Group backed by all G-20 nations and considerable citizen’s engagement, truly making it a people’s presidency. Through 150 captivating cultural programs and the involvement of over 7,000 artists, it revitalised tourism, promoted cross-cultural understanding and extended beyond traditional G20 boundaries. By fostering participation at all levels – federal, social, diplomatic, global, economic to name a few as well as putting forth priorities that reflect a better world for all, it has embodied its guiding theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or One Earth, One Family, One Future, he added.
