The Hindu : Sculpture park to come up at Basar soon

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Mar 29, 2004

Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

Sculpture park to come up at Basar soon

By S. Harpal Singh

ADILABAD, MARCH 28. A sculpture park in a two-acre plot of land near the Gnana Saraswati temple at the pilgrim centre of Basar in this district would come up soon after the election.

The park would be developed by the AP Tourism Department as part of tourism promotion at Basar to be located beside the new dormitory being constructed there. The sculpture park would be a novelty in that it would be developed after an exercise of a few months by renowned sculptors from across the State and possibly from across the country.

Famous sculptors from Nandyal, Chittoor, Madanapalle, etc. would be brought to Basar for sculpting statues on the Gnana Saraswati temple theme. Adilabad district Collector Vikas Raj told The Hindu that subsequent to the sculptures getting ready a park would be developed with focus on the sculptures. The park would also feature compatible music and lighting, he added.

On the other developments being initiated at Basar, Mr. Vikas Raj said that a `Tapovan' was coming up on two of the three hillocks behind the Gnana Saraswati temple. There was already a park in existence on one of the hillocks. This hillock also has an artificial waterfall on it. At present, water cascades only from one side of this fall. However, water would be made to cascade down from all the sides of the artificial fall. "The Tapovan would offer tranquillity and would be a place encompassing the ancient and modern in terms of matters spiritual. The ancient component would be planting of select species of trees and music meant for the purpose of meditation. The tree and flower species planned for plantation in the park would also have abundant religious significance and attachment. It would be modern because it would boast of lighting and pathways," he observed.

Once the special species trees are mature enough, platforms under the trees for people to sit on would be constructed. People seeking tranquillity could meditate in peace. Already, a `Dhyan Mandir' or meditation centre is being planned at Basar. It would consist of an overnight sleeping facility for meditation enthusiasts. In addition to these new developments, a souvenir shop is also coming up at Basar. The shop to be established on the lines of Lepakshi ventures would exhibit artefacts and handicrafts from across the State.

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Andhra Pradesh