“Friends” (Amar Nath Sehgal)

Friends – A Symbol of India–Luxembourg Friendship

Creation and Inspiration

The bronze sculpture “Friends”, created by Amar Nath Sehgal in 1988, is one of his most poignant and meaningful works. It features two human figures placed directly opposite each other, conveying not just physical presence but also the essence of equality, respect, and mutual admiration.

Sehgal, who lived between India and Luxembourg for over two decades, poured into this sculpture his experiences of belonging, cultural exchange, and the warmth he received from the people of Luxembourg. The work reflects the artist’s belief that friendship transcends boundaries, building bridges between nations and communities.

Symbolism of the Sculpture

The two bronze figures are deliberately positioned face-to-face, embodying dialogue, openness, and trust. They are not confrontational but rather reflective of mutual support and companionship. The strength of the forms resonates with resilience, while their mirrored placement signifies harmony and balance.

This symbolism made Friends a natural emblem of the ties between India and Luxembourg, representing both nations as strong yet equal partners, connected through shared values and cultural exchange.

Journey of the Sculpture

The photograph of Amar Nath Sehgal with Friends is deeply moving, as it reflects his own personal journey an Indian artist finding inspiration and kinship in a distant land that became a second home. In 2019, the sculpture was loaned to the Embassy of The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in New Delhi, where it continues to represent the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

A Bridge of Cultures

Just as Sehgal himself symbolized the India–Luxembourg cultural connect, Friends stands as a visual metaphor for international solidarity and people-to-people ties. Its enduring relevance lies in its simplicity of form yet depth of meaning, reminding viewers that true friendship whether between individuals or nations is founded on mutual respect, equality, and shared humanity.

A Joint Philatelic Tribute

To mark the 75 years of India–Luxembourg diplomatic relations, the Department of Posts of India and Luxembourg Post have jointly issued a Commemorative Postage Stamp. Featuring Sehgal’s masterpieces The Friends and Flute Player, the stamps celebrate not only the enduring friendship between the two nations but also the role of art and culture in connecting people across borders.

This philatelic issue is both a tribute to Amar Nath Sehgal and a testament to the strong diplomatic, cultural, and artistic ties between India and Luxembourg.