Renowned for its rich art and culture, Bikaner has once again made headlines, this time for a remarkable artistic creation that captures the essence of India’s heritage. Local artist Ram Kumar Bhadani has crafted a unique charkha (spinning wheel) that not only symbolizes Mahatma Gandhi’s principles of non-violence and self-reliance but also encapsulates the country’s diverse culture and national symbols.
Made from teak wood, the charkha took three years to complete and features intricate Usta art, a traditional Bikaneri style. The charkha, which measures 33 inches in length and 18 inches in both width and height, is adorned with 12 spokes on its surface, each inscribed with the names of the 24 spokes of the Ashok Chakra in Devanagari script. These include virtues such as Duty, Cooperation, Peace, Brotherhood, Prosperity, Rights, Restraint, Service, Health, Justice, Organization, Security, Modesty, Forgiveness, Sacrifice, Order, Love, Rules, Wealth, Industry, Friendship, Policy, Welfare and Equality.
The charkha is also decorated with representations of the Ashoka Pillar at Sarnath, the Ashok Chakra on the two small pillars in front of it. On the plaque below the spinning wheel, Mahatma Gandhi’s 3 monkeys have been depicted, which depicts ‘Don’t see evil, don’t speak evil, don’t hear evil’. Moreover, Gandhiji’s glasses have been depicted which is a symbol of clean India. Gandhiji’s watch which has also been engraved represents the importance of time and continuity.
Satyameva Jayate has been inscribed in Devanagari script on the surface of the handle used to run the spinning wheel. The foundation that has been prepared on the bottom surface of the spinning wheel depicts the national symbol, emblem, the father of the nation and India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna.
Veena, the national musical instrument, the national currency rupee, the national animal tiger, the national bird peacock and other national symbols have also been depicted, embossed with golden pen and their surface has been painted with white colour.
Flowers and leaves have been depicted on the four corners of the foundation and in the middle. On its surface, white which is considered a symbol of peace has been used and in the lower part, red and green colours have been used in combination with leaves.
Ram Kumar Bhadani’s creation is a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy and a reflection of India’s unity in diversity. The artist’s intention was to harmonize India’s cultural and historical heritage with the spinning wheel, turning it into a powerful symbol of the nation’s integrity and values.
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