A princely interior of the days of Indian splendour

MOSCOW: An exhibition called the Atmosphere of the Maharajas has opened at the Moscow House of Artists here combining the best of traditional Indian aesthetics and modern European facilities.

Twenty-seven Russian interior designers, using tools Indian artisans worked with, have created a princely Indian suite furnished with antique furniture and statues as well as precious fabrics.

The suite has a drawing room, bedroom, tearoom and others, all furnished and decorated in a style that combines centuries-old Indian aesthetics and modern European comfort.

"It's a synthesis of Indian tradition and contemporary artistic design," says Yury Aistov, the principal creative force behind the endeavour.

"This is a place for living in," a designer says.

Every visitor can relax on a divan and have a cup of authentic Indian tea. All are welcome to meditate, get an Ayurvedic massage and watch performances of Indian and Russian dancers and musicians.

The fact that the exhibition was organised by a Russian is proof of Russia's mounting interest in Indian culture, remarked Kanwal Sibal, the Indian ambassador to Russia, who attended the opening gala. "Yury Aistov is doing a wonderful job of popularising Indian culture here."

The exhibition is among the first events of the Days of Indian Culture festival, which is being held in Moscow from Aug 8 to 22 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of India's independence.