New Delhi: BJP national president Amit Shah on Tuesday inaugurated world's largest 'charkha' (spinning wheel) at the terminal three of IGI Airport here. Mahesh Sharma, the Minister of State for Tourism and Culture was the Guest of Honour .
Speaking at the occasion, BJP president Amit Shah recalled the role of the 'charkha' - a source of self-reliance - in India's freedom struggle.
“Installation of the iconic charkha at the departure forecourt between gates number four and five would carry forward the legacy of promoting India's rich culture heritage through different artworks at the terminal,” said Shah.
In his message, the Prime Minister said, “I am sure the charkha will serve to remind travellers at the IGI airport of India's timeless heritage and the values of sustainability and harmony that it stands for.”
The idea behind displaying the world’s biggest 'charkha' at the “country’s biggest” airport is to foster an egalitarian society as demonstrated by Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.
The 'charka' has been installed by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
All the existing artworks at the terminal -Mudras, Regal procession, Elephant statues, Surya sculpture, Suryanamaskar and Worli Art, among others-depict and showcase Indian heritage globally.
The installation of the four-tonne teakwood charkha began in May. Installed between departure gates number 3 and 4, it was built in Ahmedabad by 42 carpenters over 50 days. It was brought to the airport here in trucks and assembled. The installation is 27 feet long and 15 feet tall.
The installation of the charkha also commemorates the centenary year of Mahatma Gandhi’s arrival from South Africa.
