RICHMOND HILL, CANADA, January 7, 2007: Since 2004, The Canadian Museum of Hindu Civilization has been part of the Vishnu Mandir Temple site, with its distinctive lotus-shaped tower. Though you could easily drive by without noticing, the museum will step into the spotlight with a community festival in May. The museum is a collection of artifacts, art and educational material aimed primarily at explaining Hinduism and its contribution to civilization, debunking misconceptions and promoting tolerance. Sitting prominently in the center of the museum is a Wall of Peace, set to be inaugurated during the upcoming Festival of India. A series of 10 pedestals hold sculptures, each representing a different religion; each equal. Throughout the museum are various sculptures, photographs, paintings and other beautiful and elaborate pieces of art. All show not only the depth of religion but also its contributions to everything from education to medicine and mathematics.
Scheduled to take place May 25 to 27, the festival will highlight Indian art, food and culture. From 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. visitors can immerse themselves in yoga seminars, watch puppet shows, dances and documentaries, hear concerts from classical Indian musicians and more. As for the museum itself, “We want to do so many things,” says Vaishali Panwar project director for the festival. An exhibition on Indian percussion instruments is planned, for example, as well as one on religious pilgrimages.