BANGALORE: There’s something so serene and majestic about mountain ranges. The overwhelming sight of amber rays melting into the horizon adds a pristine touch to nature’s finest creations. Nestled on the lap of the grandiose Himalayan ranges, Mount Kailash is the abode of divinity. For centuries, mankind has been mystically drawn to its beauty. Mesmerised by its rustic structures, Madan Gopal too set forth on a journey of eternal bliss and spiritual enlightenment with his latest exhibition of photographs titled Kailas-63 at Venkatappa Art Gallery recently. City Express finds out more.
“I would categorise mountaineering as a semi-spiritual experience. It instills a sense of calm and tranquility. To be honest, it is quite addictive. During my trip to Arunachala, Tiruvannamalai, it occurred to me one day that I should capture Mount Kailash by linking it to the lives of 63 great Saints as narrated in the sacred scriptures of Periya Puranam that dates back to the twelfth century. Hence, the name Kailas-63. Well, these people were not great scholars; they were washer men, fishermen and warriors. They were normal people like you and me who wished to make a difference to humanity. And, I believe that the exposure to spiritual texts coupled with one’s experiences will bring balance to an individual’s life, community, society and nation as a whole,” said Madan Gopal, who is also an avid traveller.
In fact, the lives of these saints in the text showcased well the unity of Cosmopolitan Brotherhood of Saints, who cut across the barriers of caste, creed, religion and class, in the society with universal consciousness as their sole mantra. Their approach and devotion liberated God from the clutches of orthodoxy and democratised sincere worship. The juxtaposition of Mount Kailash with the holy saints traces different views of the massive structure. With each photograph containing a note on the saint including his act of achieving moksha (liberation), one cannot help but connect with nature. The rugged landscape texture also has a certain
mystical aura around it.
“Well, Darshan and Parikrama of Kailash and Mansarovar are considered virtuous by the believers of four religions Bonpa, Hindu, Buddhist and Jain. The sheer beauty of these mountains leaves you spellbound. They elevate the spiritual energy of a person. In fact, considering the various moods exhibited by these majestic structures, it is only natural that we treat them as living entities. Apart from dissolving your identity, these regal mountains also tend to bring forth a sense of spiritual energy. The whole concept of ego and time dissolves. And, in a way it humbles you,” added the photographer.
Soaked in the quietude of nature’s wilderness, Madan Gopal sought harmony in the symmetry of mountain peaks. Through his inner journey of self-discovery and transformation, this photographer wishes further to capture moments of singularity in our universe where time and
space cease to exist.