In the spiritual heart of Varanasi, where the Ganges whispers ancient tales, a modern marvel rises—the Rudraksha International Convention Centre.
A fusion of Indian spirituality and Japanese precision, this architectural gem embodies the synergy between India and Japan. This is a brilliant testament to Indo-Japanese friendship, technological innovation, and the unexpected hero of this story – an Indian lighting manufacturer that outshone expectations…
Where Ancient Spirituality Meets Cutting – Edge Technology
Funded by Japan’s JICA and inaugurated by PM Modi in 2021, the Rudraksha Centre is more than a venue—it’s a cultural bridge.
Designed in the shape of a Shiva Lingam and adorned with 108 aluminum Rudraksha beads, the Rudraksha Convention Centre is a structure that demands attention. But what truly breathes life into this architectural masterpiece is the invisible artistry flowing through its veins – a state-of-the-art lighting system that transforms the space from impressive to extraordinary.
“We feel honoured to be associated with this prestigious project,” says Mr. Ajeet Khare, Managing Director of Canara Lighting, the company behind the lighting magic. “A Japanese firm which built the convention centre at a cost of ₹186 crores, was aware of the achievements of Canara Lighting and hence chose us for the stage lighting system.”
That choice speaks volumes. In a project funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) with a grant-in-aid of 3,042 million Japanese yen, only excellence would suffice. What makes this partnership particularly noteworthy is that the entire lighting system was designed and manufactured at Canara Lighting‘s facility in Mangalore, showcasing Indian manufacturing prowess on an international stage.
Lighting Mastery: 300+ Reasons to Be Impressed
What does it take to illuminate a venue of international significance? For Canara Lighting, the answer lies in the details – over 300 meticulously engineered light fixtures, including 96 RGBW profile spots, 28 LED wash lights, and 32 RGBW LED PARs, all orchestrated into a symphony of light and shadow.
But the true innovation extends beyond mere numbers. The system incorporates 22-meter motorized light bars and counterweight systems, allowing for unprecedented flexibility in lighting configurations. Environmental consciousness takes center stage with power-efficient LED fixtures that align with global sustainability goals while delivering uncompromising performance.
Perhaps most impressive is the system’s versatility. A remotely controlled partition curtain system, designed and installed by Canara Lighting, transforms the 1200-seat auditorium to accommodate gatherings of various sizes. The entire lighting ecosystem – from fixtures to curtains – can be controlled remotely, offering unparalleled ease of use.
“The stage lighting system is performing very well to our complete satisfaction,” notes Masataka Ota, General Manager of Fujita Corporation, the Japanese firm behind the construction. “We appreciate their efforts in using their resources effectively and for arranging expert engineers for installation.”
Pandemic Perseverance: Lighting Up Against All Odds
The technical feat of installing this sophisticated system would be impressive under normal circumstances. That Canara Lighting accomplished it during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic elevates their achievement to the extraordinary.
“It was a test of our resolve and expertise,” reflects Mr. Prasada Rao, Sr. General Manager who led the project. “We had to adapt to new safety protocols, material management, manage logistical challenges, and still maintain our high standards of quality and precision.”
The team faced a perfect storm of challenges: lockdowns disrupting supply chains, protective equipment, hampering communication, and the stifling heat of Varanasi, adding another layer of difficulty. Workers donned masks and maintained social distances while racing against tight deadlines – a testament to human ingenuity and determination.
The Technical Symphony Behind the Scenes
For the technically minded, the project represents a masterclass in lighting system design. The front-of-house lighting – critical for proper illumination of performers – benefits from a fixed light bar engineered for safe and easy access. A manual double purchase counterweight system demonstrates Canara’s mastery of complex rigging solutions, maximizing stage utility in a venue where vertical space is at a premium.
From line shaft hoist-type winch systems to pile winding-type winches, the motorized solutions offer various speeds and capacities tailored to the venue’s specific needs. The electrical engineering showcases equal sophistication: a 400A dimming system control panel, a 100A carry-on power supply panel, and an 11-way MCCP & RCP with VFD option.
Perhaps most impressive is a unique feature allowing operation of the curtain system, utility bar, cyclorama screen, and cinema screen without a power supply – a testament to ingenious design thinking.
The significance of the Rudraksha Convention Centre and Canara Lighting‘s contribution received its ultimate recognition on July 15, 2021, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the facility. The Prime Minister highlighted the Centre’s capacity to host spiritual, religious, and commercial conferences of both national and international significance, emphasizing how the advanced facilities would help preserve and present Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
A Prime Ministerial Inauguration and Beyond
That this presentation will happen under lights designed and manufactured in India speaks volumes about the country’s growing technological capabilities. From Mangalore to Varanasi, Canara Lighting’s journey represents the best of “Made in India” – innovation, quality, and the ability to deliver excellence on the global stage.
Lighting the Way Forward
The Rudraksha Convention Centre is not just a building. It symbolizes strong bilateral ties, showcases technological prowess, and demonstrates India’s manufacturing competitiveness on a global scale.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, Canara Lighting hasn’t just illuminated a convention center – they’ve lit a path forward for Indian manufacturing on the global stage. And that light, like the timeless Ganges flowing nearby, shows no signs of dimming.