A replica of the Konark Wheel from the Sun temple in Odisha was used as a backdrop for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s welcome handshake with G20 leaders at the summit venue in New Delhi/Bhubaneswar. The Konark Wheel was built in the 13th century and has 24 spokes. It represents India’s ancient wisdom, advanced civilization, and architectural excellence. The wheel symbolizes time, progress, and change. It also reflects the resilience of democratic ideals and commitment to progress in society. The Konark Wheel is a UNESCO world heritage site.
At the summit venue, one side of the Konark Wheel features the G20 logo, while the other side displays the Sanskrit slogan ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – One Earth. One Family. One Future’, which is the theme of India’s G20 presidency.
On Saturday morning, Prime Minister Modi arrived at Bharat Mandapam for the two-day meeting of world leaders. He was accompanied by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, among others.
Meanwhile, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will not attend the G20 dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu on the opening day of the event. The reason for his absence is unknown. Naveen is currently focusing on preparing for upcoming elections and holding discussions with party leaders.
The President has invited Cabinet and State ministers, secretaries to the Government of India, and chief ministers to the dinner, which will take place at the multi-function hall of India Trade Promotion Organisation complex at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi.