By Agnibeena Ghosh , 17 July 2023
Nestled amidst the everchanging landscape of India, a captivating haven awaits those seeking to immerse themselves in India’s spiritual past. Ved Van Park, India’s first Vedic-themed park, has been inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath in Noida’s Sector 78. With its harmonious integration of nature, culture, and spirituality, Ved Van Park invites individuals on a transformative journey to reconnect with their inner selves and the eternal wisdom of the Vedic traditions.
Construction began in January 2021 to transform a formerly neglected dumping ground into the impressive park which opened last month. With an impressive budget of Rs 27 crores, each element of the park is meticulously crafted to promote contemplation, learning, and introspection in accordance to the four ancient Vedas- Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda and Atharvaveda, which are depicted through golden, embossed sculptures.
An Immersion in Vedic Teachings
Following its theme, Ved Van Park is divided into seven sections after the Saptarishis i.e. the seven great sages of the Vedic realm- Atri, Agastya Gautam, Kashyap, Bharadwaj, Vishwamitra and Vasistha.This offers an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of Vedic teachings, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the wisdom passed down through generations. The park showcases numerous interactive experiences and exhibits designed to bring the sacred texts of the Vedas to life.
- Vedic Architecture and Sculptures
The architectural design of Ved Van Park draws inspiration from ancient Vedic principles and philosophies. Life-sized sculptures of ancient sages partaking in activities like archery and meditative rituals with their disciples evoke a deep sense of reverence. The structures in the park exhibit intricate carvings, symbolic motifs, and geometric patterns reminiscent of Vedic architecture with the Devanagari script becoming the basis of multiple of these sculptures. Wall murals throughout the park depict various deitiesand mythological characters from Vedic literature.
- Meditation and Yoga Centres
Ved Van Park encourages visitors to explore the practice of meditation and yoga, essential components of Vedic teachings. The park features dedicated meditation and yoga centres, where individuals can engage in serene contemplation and connect with their inner selves. Guided sessions and workshops are offered to help visitors consolidate their understanding and experience the profound benefits of these ancient practices while in the midst of nature.
- Herbal Gardens and Ayurveda
In line with the holistic approach of Vedic teachings, Ved Van Park boasts vibrant herbal gardens that showcase the medicinal plants described in Ayurvedic texts. Housing over 50,000 plants including chandan (Santalum paniculatum), banyan (Ficus benghalensis), rudraksha(Elaeocarpus Ganitrus Roxb), the park allows its visitors to stroll through these gardens, learning about the therapeutic properties of different herbs and their significance in Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine closely associated with Vedic knowledge. It even features the famed kalpavriksha or wish fulfilling tree in accordance to ancient Sanskrit texts.
- Vedic Wisdom Exhibits
Ved Van Park features engaging exhibits that present the wisdom and philosophy encapsulated in the Vedic texts. Visitors can explore interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and informational panels that delve into the various branches of Vedic knowledge, such as astronomy, mathematics, philosophy, and linguistics in the Vedic Knowledge Centre. These exhibits facilitate an understanding of the profound contributions made by the ancient sages in diverse fields of study.
Harmony with Nature
Ved Van Park harmoniously blends Vedic teachings with the beauty of its natural surroundings. The park encompasses lush greenery, serene water bodies, and winding pathways that provide a tranquil setting for reflection and introspection while also providing a sense of quiet comfort. The integration of nature within the park’s design serves as a reminder of the Vedic belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving the environment.
Preserving and Promoting Vedic Heritage
Ved Van Park not only offers a transformative experience to its visitors but also plays a vital role in preserving and promoting India’s rich Vedic heritage. The park serves as an educational hub, conducting workshops, seminars, and cultural events that aim to disseminate knowledge about Vedic teachings to a wider audience. It also supports research and scholarship in Vedic studies, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this ancient wisdom of the subcontinent.
Melding Past with the Present
The park incorporates cutting edge modern technology to educate visitors about India’s ancient past through light and sound shows which illustrate passages from various Vedic texts such as the Agastya Sangitha. The park also features a gym and amphitheatre. Both of these facilities run on solar energy, which is in keeping with the overarching Vedic theme which promotes harmony with nature. Water fountains put up a beautiful display throughout the day. The park aims to make the process of learning an enjoyable experience for the viewer with a focus on holistic education which appeals to a variety of senses.
Conveniently located on Ved Van Road within Assotech Windsor Court in Sector 78 of Noida, this park stands as a testament to the enduring wisdom of the Vedas.It invitesmodern India to embark on a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and intellectual exploration through its glorious past. By skilfully blending Vedic teachings with the beauty of nature, the park offers a unique opportunity to connect with the profound wisdom of ancient India. As India’s first Vedic-themed park, Ved Van Park sets a precedent for other such initiatives. It encourages the preservation and dissemination of Vedic knowledge for generations of the present and future. With the increasing global interest in Vedic practices this park is a landmark in India’ contribution to the store of indigenous knowledge which deviate from the Eurocentric standards of the present.
Visitors can easily access this park with a short five minute commute from the Sector 101 metro station on the Noida Metro’s Aqua Line. The Ved Van Park is open to the public all seven days a week, from 8 AM to 9 PM. Visitors to the park can enjoy an educational laser and sound show which takes place everyday at 7:45 PM.
