Hope floats to view Vrindavani Vastra online

GUWAHATI: Director of British Council India, Alan Gemmell OBE, said there are ways to ensure the Vrindavani Vastra exhibit is not confined to the British Museum, where it is on display in the public exhibition, Krishna: In the Garden of Assam, which will be on till August 15.
The Vrindavani Vastra is an exquisite nine-metre-long silk tapestry that dates back to the 16th century.It was woven by artisans under Sankaradeva's supervision and is currently at the British Museum. It came up in a recent session at the legislative assembly. Culture minister Naba Doley said he had discussed the possibility of borrowing the Vastra for an interim display in Assam for a four-month-long exhibition with chief secretary VK Pipersenia in July.
"I have seen the exchanges in the legislative assembly. I will be talking to the British Museum about the best way to make sure the people can experience the impact of the exhibition," Gemmell said.
"There are a number of ways of sharing the exhibition viewing it online or through digital initiatives. We can look at other ways to celebrate the region's tradition and culture," added Gemmell.
Gemmell was in the city for the launch of the UK-India Year of Culture, an arts initiative to promote cultural exchange between the northeast and the UK. He said the council would like to be a part of Bihu festivities next year. "I saw a presentation on Bihu. I would want the council to be part of the festival. We will use our collaboration to celebrate this festival," Gemmell said.
Gemmell also met chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Wednesday to discuss a partnership between the two on education, culture, tourism, skill development and even sports.