New Delhi, India, Feb 18: The prestigious Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad witnessed a wonderful display of India’s artistic and cultural heritage with the presence of the world-renowned sculptor and Guinness World Record holder, Shri Naresh Kumar Kumawat, who showcased his artwork through his fascinating live clay modeling at the mela. The sculptor’s presence at the mela added an immense dimension to the event, which left the visitors in awe.

Started on a reputable note, the fair was privileged with the presence of the Honorable Governor and Vice-President of India, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan, and the Honorable Chief Minister of Haryana, Shri Nayab Singh Saini, who looked upon the pavilions at the Surajkund International Atmanirbhar Crafts Mela. He amazed the onlookers with his expertise through live clay modeling, an effective artistic form of expression, which vividly brought back the centuries-old Indian art forms.
The efforts made by Naresh Kumar Kumawat were applauded by the valuable guests, and the Honorable Chief Minister appreciated his extraordinary skills and dedication to Indian art and culture. The spectacular live modeling session encouraged the young generation to be associated with the age-old artistic treasure of India, bringing liveliness to the cultural experience rather than just a demonstration.
Further on this experience, Kumawat Ji, expressed, “It’s a moment of pride for me to had this golden opportunity to present live clay modeling at Surajkund Mela, a platform celebrating the soul of Indian art and craftsmanship, among the presence of such distinguished leaders. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Shri Amit Agarwal, IAS, Tourism Secretary, Government of Haryana, for giving me this wonderful chance to share our cultural heritage.”
Naresh Kumar Kumawat, Internationally Acclaimed Sculptor and Director of Matu Ram Art Centres Pvt. Ltd., is widely celebrated for his monumental contributions to art and public sculpture. Among his most iconic works is the 369-foot Statue of Belief, the world’s tallest statue of Lord Shiva in Rajasthan, and the 206-foot Statue of Social Justice in Andhra Pradesh, symbolizing equality and constitutional values. His artistic vision also adorns India’s new Parliament building through the evocative Samudra Manthan mural and the medallions of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
On the global horizon, Kumawat Ji’s sculptures have been exemplary ambassadors of India’s artistic essence through installations in Mexico, Geneva, Guyana, New York, Australia, Mauritius, and Costa Rica. His participation at Surajkund Mela has aptly reflected his lifelong dedication to the cause of not only preserving but also promoting India’s ancient artistic heritage for the benefit of future generations.
In today’s global scenario dominated by modern trends, Naresh Kumar Kumawat’s live art performance at Surajkund Mela has been a heart-touching tribute to India’s rich heritage, its deeply rooted cultural values, and its artistic legacy.

Hyderabad, Feb 18: After a successful run spotlighting some of India’s most exciting emerging voices, SOCIAL SELECTS returns with its fifth edition, bringing electronic music artist and producer AATMA to Mindspace SOCIAL, Hyderabad as part of a 5-city India tour, following previous successful editions in Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai.
India, Feb 18th: Exponent Energy, a Bengaluru-based energy-tech company, announced a 360-degree fintech and asset management business venture, Exponent One, aimed at addressing a key barrier to scaling commercial EV adoption: access to viable financing. Financing and mobility veteran Sandeep Divakaran will helm the new venture as Co-founder and CEO.
Bangalore, Feb 18th: Students from Karnataka were recognized among national winners at the OpenAI Academy x NxtWave Buildathon finale at the India AI Impact Summit, held at Sushma Swaraj Bhavan, New Delhi. LineLens built by students from MS Ramaiah Engineering College secured 4th position for creating an AI-driven CRM research workspace powered by agentic AI. LineLens converts a researcher’s browser into an intelligent CRM workspace that automates discovery, outreach, and collaboration tracking through agentic AI. Karnataka’s representation reinforces the strong pipeline of industry-ready AI student talent from the state.
Bangalore, Feb 18th: The Class of 1990 of Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur returned to campus to celebrate their Coral Jubilee Reunion, marking 35 years since graduation.