Living with the Gods

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

Factual: History

Neil MacGregor explores the role and expression of shared beliefs around the world.

Neil MacGregor explores the role and expression of shared beliefs in communities around the world. Produced in partnership with the British Museum.

BBC Radio 4 LW

Living with the Gods: Replicating the Divine

Replicating the Divine

BBC Radio 4 - Living with the Gods, Replicating the Divine

Neil MacGregor focuses on Russian Orthodox icons and the Hindu goddess Durga.

Neil MacGregor focuses on the making of divine images, including the painting of Russian Orthodox icons and the creation of images of the Hindu goddess Durga in decorated clay.

Neil MacGregor continues his series on the expression of shared beliefs with a focus on the making of divine images. 

For the painter of a Russian religious icon, the paramount purpose is the continuation of a tradition, in which the painter seeks only to take his proper place, creating an image which opens a gateway to the divine. 

The Hindu goddess Durga is at the centre of the popular annual festival of Durga Puja, where communities create images of the goddess in everyday materials - clay, wood, straw and oil paint - which then are endowed with a transcendental character. 

Producer Paul Kobrak 

Produced in partnership with the British Museum
Photograph (c) The Trustees of the British Museum.

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Living with the Gods

Replicating the Divine

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4