TAMIL
Cultural ambassador
C. L. RAMAKRISHNAN
SIRPIKKUL KANDEDUTHA MUTHUKKAL: Rajalakshmi Narayanan; Dakshina Kalai Nool Pathippagam, 46, First Avenue, Vettuvankani, Injambakkam, Chennai-600041. Rs. 200.
THIS IS a biography of the reputed sculptor V.Ganapathy Sthapati. In 36 chapters it narrates the interaction he had with important personalities. It also gives a brief outline of the life and contributions of the sculptor’s consort. One is amazed that he has contributed so much nationally and internationally, creating standing monuments like the Tiruvalluvar statue in Kanyakumari, Gandhi Mandapam and Valluvar Kottam in Chennai and the large number of temples across the globe, thus proving to be a cultural ambassador. Some of the narratives make very moving anecdotes. It is fascinating that the sculptors choose stones relating to its gender for making idols of gods, goddesses and other sculptures, categorising them as male, female and neuter.
The statements about his qualities and capabilities are truly well deserved for not only has he uncovered the knowledge in the Sthapatya Veda, but along with his family members, is engaged in teaching this wonderful art, based on Indian books on architecture like Mayamata and Manasara. The concept of Vaastu has been well brought out. The publications of this Sthapathy can be compared to the strong structures which he has himself created, standing testimony to ancient Indian knowledge on sculpture and architecture. The biographer should be congratulated for these extremely interesting and educative articles, at once very readable and absorbing.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Book Review
