Apr 17, 2024
INDIAN CONSTITUTION: ILLUSTRATIONS AND SYMBOLISM
The Constitution of India is not only a document of immense legal significance but also a piece of artistic heritage. Each part of the Constitution is introduced with unique horizontal line drawings that set a thematic tone related to the content of that particular section. These illustrations were designed by Nandalal Bose, a prominent artist, and his team, with the calligraphy penned by Prem Behari Narain Raizada.
Part I, which addresses the Union and its territory, features an image of the Bull Seal, a relic from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. This symbolizes India's rich and ancient heritage, grounding the modern governance system in its historical context.
Part IV includes a depiction of Krishna and Arjun, iconic figures from the Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. This illustration correlates with the Directive Principles of State Policy, symbolically representing guidance and righteousness in governance, much as Krishna guided Arjun through moral dilemmas.
Part XIV portrays Emperor Akbar with his courtiers, reflecting the administrative setups under historical Indian regimes, aligning with the part’s focus on Services under the Union and the states.
These artworks not only beautify the document but also encapsulate India's diverse cultural tapestry, showcasing leaders and icons from various epochs and backgrounds, such as Buddha, Mahavir, Maharani Laxmi Bai, Chhatrapati Shivaji, Guru Gobind Singh, Tipu Sultan, Mahatma Gandhi, and Subhas Chandra Bose. Each drawing not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Constitution but also imbues it with deeper cultural meanings and connections to India's past.
These artistic elements remind readers that the Indian Constitution is a blend of India's historical values and modern democratic principles, aiming to guide the nation towards a just and equitable society.
SRIRAM's
