India pavilion at Shanghai expo gets huge footfall

Visitors are amazed at the bamboo-made dome with a diameter of 34.4 metres. It is a recurrent theme in Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, Jain, Sikh and Christian architectures throughout India, says India Pavilion director D.K. Nangia.

A visit to the world's largest bamboo-made dome paves the way for mutual understanding between China and India. More than 60,000 plants sit on its roof, which collects rainwater for use in the pavilion, he said.

"Environmental degradation has reached a horrific level. The stress of living in high-cost urban areas leads to impatience and that needs to be controlled. So, our stress in the pavilion is harmony, which is a trademark of India," Xinhua quoted  Nangia as saying.
For this purpose, bamboo is used in the construction of the dome for its low cost and inherent strength, he explained.

The interiors based on the theme of "Living in harmony through the ages" displays India's urban planning system, philosophy, scientific achievements, arts and cultures.
An eye-catching holographic audio visual showcases the Seven Chakras (circles of energy) and how the ancient system inspires urban development.

"This unique feature of the India Pavilion represents the country's long tradition of living in harmony with nature," Nangia said.

He said the Expo was a good platform to link the "India Tiger" and "China Dragon", especially at grassroots levels.

"I appreciate the progress we are witnessing in China, and I have seen that people in China react very fast. The way Shanghai authorities have moved to create a green area around the Expo is something we should be proud of."

Besides India, 188 other countries have been taking part in the six-month-long event which kicked off April 30.