“Look this way” I say, my voice filled with anticipation. We’re standing before the Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin Statue. Have you ever paused to consider the story behind this bronze figure in Delhi?
The Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin Statue stands as a tribute to a literary giant. Alexander Pushkin was a celebrated Russian poet. His words continue to resonate across cultures and time.
This statue found its place here in 1988. It was a gift from the USSR. The unveiling coincided with Russian President Mikhail Gorbachev’s visit to India. Although Gorbachev didn’t unveil it himself, his foreign minister did the honors. The event was quite the spectacle. Half of Ferozeshah Road was covered to hide an unpleasant public toilet.
Interestingly, Pushkin’s influence extends beyond literature. Vikram Seth, an Indian writer, drew inspiration from Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin. Seth’s first novel, The Golden Gate, was written in verse.
Take a closer look at the statue itself. His coat buttons are open. His hands are crossed behind his back. His face is turned towards the Nepal embassy. Though majestic, the statue is not without its blemishes. Bird droppings sometimes mar his clothes.
You might notice some etched Russian words on the back of the pedestal. These markings are a subtle reminder of the statue’s origins. The number ‘1988’ is also etched there, marking the year of its installation.
In recent times, the Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin Statue has gained attention for a different reason. During a period of geopolitical tension, a Hindu group put up posters on the statue. These posters expressed support for Russia. They highlight the complex interplay between culture, politics, and history.
Now, as the Delhi Metro rumbles beneath this circle, consider the layers of history. Traffic now passes close to the statue’s base. A grassy patch and fountain that once adorned the space are gone.
The Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin Statue stands as a symbol of cultural exchange. It embodies the enduring power of storytelling. It links Russia and India through the timeless verses of a poet. So, next time you pass by, remember the story of Pushkin in Delhi.