Udaipur: Dr. Laxyaraj Singh Mewar inaugurated the exhibition *“Resonances: Ritual Heritage in Wood”* at the historic Chhota Darikhana in the Udaipur City Palace Museum. For the first time in India, this unique exhibition showcases over 40 ritual objects made of wood and metal from Benin, Togo, and Nigeria, highlighting the rich spiritual and cultural traditions of West Africa.
Dr. Mewar, President and Managing Trustee of the Maharana Mewar Charitable Foundation, described the exhibition as more than just a display—it is a tribute to heritage, art, and legacy. He emphasized that the exhibition reflects the Indian philosophy of *Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam* (the world as one family) and represents the foundation’s efforts to promote global unity, respect, and interconnectedness.
The inauguration was attended by several dignitaries from India and abroad, including Nivrutti Kumari Mewar, Prof. Philippe Charlier, and Dr. Tulika Gupta. Curator Prof. Charlier explained that the exhibition demonstrates how ritual traditions help maintain a balance between humans, nature, and divinity. He noted that these ideas are closely linked to Indian cultural and philosophical traditions, where ritual and spirituality are integral to life.
The exhibition, titled *“Resonances: A Ritual Heritage in Wood”*, will run from 14 February 2026 to 14 April 2026. It is organized by the Maharana Mewar Charitable Foundation in collaboration with Alliance Française Jaipur and the French Institute in India.
Prof. Charlier, a distinguished anthropologist, archaeologist, and forensic medicine expert, previously served as research director at the Musée du Quai Branly in Paris and currently teaches at the University of Paris-Saclay. His multidisciplinary research focuses on cultural heritage, human history, and spiritual traditions.
The exhibition aims to foster cultural dialogue and provide visitors with an intercultural experience, making it a unique opportunity for those interested in art, history, and spirituality. The event was introduced by Sanjana Sarkar, and an exhibition catalogue was also launched.