India is the flavour of the New Year in London as the UK-India Year of Culture celebrations kicked off in Britain to strengthen the special cultural partnership between the two countries and celebrate the shared ties across science, design and arts.
A celebration of Indian innovation in a special exhibition at the Science Museum, an Indian floral extravaganza at Kew Gardens and a storytelling session at the British Library in London are among some of the early projects unveiled under this broader theme - formally announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British Prime Minister Theresa May during the latter's visit to India in November last year.
'Illuminating India' at the Science Museum in London centres around two exhibitions - an unprecedented survey of photography in India from the emergence of the medium in the 19th century to the present day and the other highlighting the long tradition of scientific thought in India from the ancient past to the present day.
"India's history and culture are built on a rich tradition of scientific thought and innovation. The stories we will be showcasing through this vibrant season not only shaped India but had global significance," said Ian Blatchford, director of the Science Museum Group, at the launch of the season last week.
Matt Hancock, UK Minister of State for Digital and Culture, said: "India has a rich scientific history that dates back thousands of years, and continues to influence societies across the world. This exhibition will educate new audiences on the exciting story of Indian design and innovation from the ancient past to today".
"It is a fantastic addition to the UK-India Year of Culture programme that will strengthen the special cultural partnership between our two countries and celebrate the shared ties across science, design and the arts."
'Illuminating India' will run from September this year till May next year and has collaborated with Indian institutions like the Survey General of India in Dehradun to acquire objects on loan for the display.
Meanwhile, Kew Botanical Gardens in south-west London unveiled a special floral display inspired by an Indian market at its annual Orchids Festival 2017 this week.
A giant Indian flag created from 900 chrysanthemums set the backdrop for life-sized animal figures, including an elephant, peacock and monkey. This year's display marries traditional and modern Indian culture, including Kew's own decorative rickshaws and an Indian street soundscape to complement the visual displays.
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