If you are someone who is fascinated by the world of history, mythology, science and medicine, the Sacred Science exhibition at the Indian Institute of World Culture (IIWC) must be on your list. Conceptualized by Maya Chandra of Maya Films and curated in partnership with Radha Rao, cultural enthusiast from Basavanagudi, this exhibition is both a tribute and a time-travel which celebrates the art and science of healing that has flourished across centuries in India.
A fitting sequel to the Vintage Salute exhibition which was held last year on Doctor’s Day, Sacred Science is again an ode to today’s physicians while highlighting the significance of the roots of Indian medicine.
Rooted in Ancient yet Timeless Traditions
The exhibition throws light on how the sacred lineage of healing originated with the creator Lord Brahma and was then passed onto Daksha Prajapati, the Ashwini Twins and Lord Indra. The evolution of Ayurveda and its three most important schools, the Atreya school of Physicians, Dhanvantari school of Surgeons and Kashyapa school of Obstetricians and Paediatricians is well elucidated. From Dhanvantari and the Saptarishis to Susruta and Acharya Nagarjuna who is known to be the alchemist of ancient India, the exhibition has a comprehensive display about the origin, contributions and impact these sages created from a cultural and alchemy point of view.
The display with regard to Pātañjalayogaśāstra Yoga Sutras is noteworthy. The photographs and AI-generated visuals are compelling and the detailed notes coupled with relevant online links for additional information makes the exhibition an engaging one.
Divinity and Medical Metaphors
This is a truly unique section which introduces the medical connection in the paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and other artists where the subject is mostly of mythological characters. So, while the image of the elephant headed God, Lord Ganesha is related to organ transplant, the picture of Lord Hanuman carrying the Sanjeevini is revered as the harbinger of the much needed cure during an emergency.
The concept of detox is perfectly captured in the image that depicts the Lord Shiva drinking the poison which emanated from the churning of the ocean of milk or Ksheerasagar.
Whether it is sacred reproduction or neurodivergence, the photographs display a medical narrative that is as interesting as intriguing!
Medical Pioneers and Trailblazers
The exhibition also spotlights several medical legends from the colonial era like Dr Mary C Albuquerque who was a key figure in women’s healthcare in Mysore State, Dr. C V Sankarambal who was one of the India’s first three women FRCS degree holders and Dr. Rukhmabai Raut who was one of India’s first full-time practicing female physicians. The work of Dr. Muthulakshmi Reddi, Dr Kadambini Bose Ganguly and Dr Anandibai Joshi is inspiring to see the least. The history of institutions like Vani Vilas, Minto Hospital and Cash Pharmacy has also been depicted.
The life story of famous Ayurveda doctor, Dr. B Venkatasubramanya Pundit (BV Pandit) who is synonymous with Nanjanagud hallu pudi (Nanjanagud tooth powder) is a revelation. He was inspired by his mother who was renowned for her home remedies and his invention of toothpowder after attending a ‘homa’ ritual is insightful. The display of yesteryear Ayurveda advertisements and other photographs complement the entire display.
The exhibition also touches upon the significance of ancient texts like Suśruta samhita which is is the first authoritative book on Ayurveda. It has the distinction of being the only authentic text on ancient Indian surgery and contains the description of many wonderful surgical feats conducted by ancient Indian surgeons.
The entire exhibition has been painstakingly put together after extensive research which is commendable. It is indeed a valuable source of information for students, researchers and other visitors. The event also saw talks by the likes of eminent personalities like Shri Shatavadhani Ganesh, Dr.Gowri Subhramanya and Dr Vivek Jawali.
The photo exhibition at IIWC is on till 04-Jul and is open from 10 am to 7 pm. Address: IIWC, 6, BP Wadia Rd, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560004
Good one
Thanks!