What the Light Remembers Brings Riddhi Shah’s New Works to Gallerie Nvya in New Delhi

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September 8, 2026

Gallerie Nvya will present “What the Light Remembers”, a solo exhibition of recent works by artist Riddhi Shah, at its Saket gallery in New Delhi from 26th September to 15th November 2026. The exhibition brings together a new body of work that examines memory through the visual relationship between architectural jaali patterns and the structures found in nature. The exhibition will be open to the public daily from 11 AM to 7 PM.

Memory as a Living Structure

In this series, Shah works with gouache, watercolour, gold pigment and walnut stain on Sanganeri and acid-free paper. Rather than treating memory as a stable record of the past, the artist approaches it as something fluid, fragmented and continually reshaped over time. Through carefully layered compositions, she investigates how recollections shift, fade and re-emerge in response to changing perspectives.

According to the exhibition text, the geometric precision of the jaali serves as both a visual framework and a conceptual device. Traditionally used in architecture across the Indian subcontinent as screens and windows, jaalis become a means of exploring how memory simultaneously reveals and conceals experience.

Dialogue Between Nature and Architecture

Several works in the exhibition, including Champa Outside My Window, Nilgiri and Krishna Kamal, place botanical imagery alongside hand-cut jaali patterns. Sections of paper are removed from the surface, allowing light, shadow and negative space to become active elements within the composition.

This interaction between presence and absence creates works that change according to viewing conditions, echoing the way memories remain incomplete and subject to reinterpretation.

Highlights of the Exhibition

New works created using gouache, watercolour, gold pigment and walnut stain
Hand-cut paper interventions inspired by architectural jaalis
Botanical studies linked to memory and perception
References to Sanganeri wasli and Mughal miniature traditions
Exploration of pattern, freedom and inherited structures

Revisiting Traditional Techniques

A significant aspect of the exhibition is Shah’s use of Sanganeri wasli, a layered paper historically associated with Indian painting traditions. Gouache provides density and precision, while watercolour introduces translucency. Walnut stain contributes unpredictable marks and tonal variations that evoke weathering and age.

Gold pigment recalls the illuminated surfaces of Mughal miniature painting, particularly the decorative botanical motifs that often extended beyond pictorial boundaries. Shah adapts these historical references within a contemporary framework, creating works that connect traditional craft processes with present-day concerns.

Examining Pattern and Freedom

Running throughout the exhibition is an inquiry into the relationship between structure and freedom. Shah draws parallels between natural systems such as branching formations, radial symmetry and phyllotaxis, and the inherited habits, histories and social frameworks that shape human life.

Rather than presenting freedom as the absence of constraints, the exhibition asks whether opportunities for change emerge from within existing structures. This question forms a recurring thread across the works on display.

About the Artist

Born in 1987, Riddhi Shah completed her B.V.A. and M.V.A. in Painting at the Faculty of Fine Arts, M.S. University, Baroda, where she continues to live and work. She has received the Nasreen Mohamedi Award and the Kalpana Reddy Award for Photography, and was awarded a Ministry of Culture scholarship between 2013 and 2015. Her work has been shown at India Art Fair, Art Dubai, Art Singapore, Bikaner House and several other institutions and art events in India and abroad.

Gallerie Nvya’s Continuing Programme

Founded in 2004, Gallerie Nvya has developed a programme focused on both established and emerging artists. Operating from multiple spaces in New Delhi and beyond, the gallery has expanded its activities through exhibitions, publications, art fairs and advisory initiatives. Under the leadership of Executive Director Meher Kalra, the gallery continues to support contemporary artistic practices and new curatorial approaches.

Visitor Information

Event	Details
Title	What the Light Remembers
Artist	Riddhi Shah
Venue	Gallerie Nvya, 101–103, Square One Designer Arcade, C-2, District Centre, Saket, New Delhi – 110017
City	New Delhi
Exhibition Dates	26th September to 15th November 2026
Organiser	Gallerie Nvya
Entry / Tickets	Open to the public
Gallery Timings	11 AM – 7 PM
Website	https://www.gallerienvya.com

Takeaway

Through a careful interplay of paper, light, botanical imagery and architectural motifs, What the Light Remembersexamines how memory is formed, altered and preserved. By drawing on historical artistic traditions while engaging contemporary questions about perception and identity, the exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between personal experience, cultural inheritance and the natural world.

Serendipity Arts Announces Venice-Wide Programme Inspired by India Pavilion at Biennale Arte 2026

By

Nagaraj

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September 8, 2026

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A series of performances, musical presentations and literary events will take place across Venice from 13–17 September 2026 as Serendipity Arts continues its engagement with the National Pavilion of India at the 61st International Art Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia. Presented by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in partnership with Serendipity Arts and the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC), the programme extends the themes of the India Pavilion exhibition, Geographies of Distance: remembering home, into public spaces across the city.

Extending the India Pavilion Beyond the Exhibition Space

The programme coincides with Homo Faber 2026 and The Venice Glass Week, positioning contemporary Indian artistic practices within Venice’s wider cultural calendar. Through music, dance, poetry and multidisciplinary performances, the initiative explores ideas of movement, materiality, memory, migration, belonging and cultural continuity. The events will take place across public squares, cultural institutions and historic venues throughout Venice, creating opportunities for local audiences and international visitors to engage with contemporary Indian art beyond the walls of the pavilion.

Copy of (L-R) Shefali Munjal, Co-Founder and Patron, Serendipity Arts; Sunil Kant Munjal, Founder Patron, Serendipity Arts; Dr. Amin Jaffer, Curator; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism of India; Isha Ambani, Ni — (L-R) Shefali Munjal, Co-Founder and Patron, Serendipity Arts; Sunil Kant Munjal, Founder Patron, Serendipity Arts; Dr. Amin Jaffer, Curator; Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism of India; Isha Ambani, Ni

The programme complements the India Pavilion exhibition Geographies of Distance: remembering home, curated by Dr Amin Jaffer. The exhibition brings together works by Alwar Balasubramaniam, Ranjani Shettar, Sumakshi Singh, Skarma Sonam Tashi and Asim Waqif, examining how ideas of home, memory and belonging are shaped by migration, change and distance.

Featured Artists and Performers

The September programme brings together artists working across multiple disciplines:

Surjit Nongmeikapam – contemporary dancer and choreographer
Ankur Tewari – singer-songwriter, composer and curator
Ranjit Hoskote – poet, translator and cultural theorist
Anwesha Das – Bharatanatyam practitioner and performer

Several works presented during the Venice programme have been specially commissioned and developed as part of the wider India Pavilion initiative.

Programme Highlights

Visitors can experience a range of performances across Venice:

One World – 13 September 2026, Conservatorio Benedetto Marcello
Encounters – 14 September 2026, Mercato di Rialto
Hakchang – Polang (Body Vessel) – 14–17 September 2026, public squares across Venice and Palazzo Diedo
La Casa in India / Beit-e-Bhārat – 15 September 2026, Palazzo Grassi
Common Time – 16 September 2026, Teatro Piccolo Arsenal
SEEDS OF THE SACRED – A Bharatanatyam Offering to the Human Spirit – 29 September 2026, Teatro Piccolo Arsenal

The programme spans music, contemporary dance, literary performance and classical Indian dance, offering multiple perspectives on the themes explored by the India Pavilion.

A Dialogue Between India and Venice

Among the highlights is Hakchang – Polang (Body Vessel), a newly commissioned work by Surjit Nongmeikapam that explores relationships between body, memory and material through contemporary movement informed by Manipuri traditions. Meanwhile, Ankur Tewari’s One World, created especially for Venice, brings together Indian folk traditions and Hindustani classical music through original compositions. Literary audiences will encounter La Casa in India / Beit-e-Bhārat, curated by Ranjit Hoskote, featuring readings in multiple languages of the Indian subcontinent alongside Italian translations.

Connection to Serendipity Arts Festival

The Venice programme also forms part of Serendipity Arts’ wider international cultural initiatives and serves as a precursor to the 11th edition of the Serendipity Arts Festival, scheduled to take place in Panjim, Goa, from 13–20 December 2026. Several works presented in Venice, including Hakchang – Polang (Body Vessel), One World and Encounters, will subsequently travel to Goa, continuing their engagement with audiences in India.

The festival, organised annually by Serendipity Arts, has become one of South Asia’s significant multidisciplinary arts platforms, bringing together visual arts, performance, music, literature and craft through public programming.

Visitor Information

The events are scheduled across multiple venues including Conservatorio Benedetto Marcello, Mercato di Rialto, Palazzo Grassi, Palazzo Diedo, Teatro Piccolo Arsenal and several public squares throughout Venice. The programme is presented as part of the wider India in Venice initiative connected to the National Pavilion of India, whose exhibition remains open until 22 November 2026.

Event Name	Details
Title	Serendipity Arts Venice Programme 2026
Related Exhibition	Geographies of Distance: remembering home
Artists / Participants	Surjit Nongmeikapam, Ankur Tewari, Ranjit Hoskote, Anwesha Das
Venue	Various venues across Venice including Palazzo Grassi, Palazzo Diedo, Teatro Piccolo Arsenal, Conservatorio Benedetto Marcello and Mercato di Rialto
City	Venice, Italy
Programme Dates	13–17 September 2026
Exhibition Duration	Until 22 November 2026
Organisers	Ministry of Culture, Government of India; Serendipity Arts; Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC)
Entry	Refer to venue-specific event information
Website	www.indiainvenice.com

Takeaway

By extending the themes of Geographies of Distance: remembering home into Venice’s public spaces, Serendipity Arts creates new opportunities for audiences to engage with contemporary Indian artistic practices through performance, music and literature. The programme highlights how cultural exchange can take place beyond gallery walls, encouraging dialogue around memory, migration and belonging. As part of India’s presence at Biennale Arte 2026, these events contribute to broader conversations about identity, heritage and the role of the arts in connecting communities across geographies.

Open Call – Artisera and Brigade Group Launch THRESHOLD Artist Development Programme

By

Nagaraj

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September 7, 2026

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Artisera, in partnership with Brigade Group, has opened applications for the inaugural edition of THRESHOLD, a national artist development programme designed to support practising Indian visual artists through financial assistance, mentorship, professional development and exhibition opportunities.

The six-month programme will select six artists from across India and provide each participant with a ₹1 lakh granttowards the creation of new work. Alongside financial support, the programme includes mentorship, workshops, studio visits, professional documentation and opportunities to engage with collectors, curators and the wider arts community.

Opportunity Overview

Launched by Artisera in July 2026, THRESHOLD was conceived in response to a need identified through the gallery’s long-term engagement with artists. The programme aims to support artists who have already invested years in building a professional practice but may benefit from greater access to resources, mentorship, visibility and professional networks.

Brigade Group has joined the initiative as the Title Partner, supporting the inaugural cohort and contributing to the programme’s broader objective of strengthening opportunities for artists at a critical stage in their careers.

Selected artists will be encouraged to develop their own artistic practices rather than respond to a prescribed brief or commission. The programme is structured to provide sustained support over an extended period while enabling artists to create new bodies of work.

Eligibility

Applications are open to:

Indian citizens
Practising visual artists aged between 28 and 50 years
Artists with a minimum of six years of committed artistic practice

Eligible disciplines include:

Painting
Sculpture
Printmaking
Photography
Textile-based practices
Installation art
Digital art
Interdisciplinary practices

Programme Benefits

The six selected artists will receive:

₹1,00,000 grant towards the creation of new work
One-on-one mentorship
Studio visits and workshops
Professional documentation support
Interactions with collectors and arts professionals
Access to professional networks
Exhibitions across Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad

The resulting exhibitions will provide opportunities for artists to engage with audiences, collectors, curators and fellow practitioners across three cities.

Important Dates

Applications Open: 1 August 2026
Application Deadline: 20 September 2026
Selection Process: 21 September – 26 October 2026
Programme Duration: 10 November 2026 – 28 February 2027
Exhibitions: March – April 2027

About the Partners

Founded in 2015 by Varun Backliwal and Lisa Jain, Artisera is a Bengaluru-based gallery that presents contemporary Indian art alongside traditional art and culturally significant collectibles. Through exhibitions, artist collaborations and public programming, the gallery works to foster engagement between artists, collectors and audiences.

Brigade Group, established in 1986, is one of India’s leading real estate developers. Beyond its work in residential, commercial, retail and hospitality sectors, the company has supported cultural initiatives including the Indian Music Experience Museum in Bengaluru, India’s first interactive music museum.

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Application Process

Applications for the inaugural edition of THRESHOLD are currently open. Interested artists can review programme guidelines and submit applications through the official THRESHOLD webpage.

The selection process will be conducted through a jury-led review, following which six artists will be chosen to participate in the programme.

Event at a Glance

Event	Details
Opportunity Name	THRESHOLD Artist Development Programme
Title Partner	Brigade Group
Eligibility	Indian visual artists aged 28–50 with a minimum of six years of committed artistic practice
Applications	1 August – 20 September 2026
Benefits	₹1 lakh grant, mentorship, professional development, studio visits and exhibitions in Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad
Programme Dates	10 November 2026 – 28 February 2027
Exhibitions	March – April 2027
Mode of Operation	Online and offline
Application Link	www.artisera.com/pages/threshold

Takeaway

THRESHOLD seeks to support artists at a significant stage in their professional journey by combining financial assistance, mentorship and exhibition opportunities. The programme offers a structured platform for selected artists to expand their visibility and connect with audiences, collectors and institutions across multiple cities.

DakshinaChitra Hosts Eco-Friendly Clay Ganesha Workshop Celebrating Indian Craft Traditions

By

Nagaraj

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September 5, 2026

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DakshinaChitra will host a Clay Ganesha Workshop on 12 September 2026, offering participants an opportunity to create their own eco-friendly Ganesha idol while engaging with South India’s craft traditions.

Designed as a hands-on learning experience, the workshop will be guided by skilled artisans associated with traditional clay and craft practices. Participants will work directly with clay and learn the process of shaping and modelling a Ganesha idol using simple techniques rooted in local craft knowledge.

Learning Through Craft Traditions

The workshop introduces participants to the cultural significance of clay craftsmanship and its connection to festival traditions. Through direct interaction with artisans, attendees will gain insight into techniques that continue to be practised across South India.

By creating a handmade idol, participants can explore the relationship between craft, sustainability, and community celebrations.

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What Participants Can Expect

Participants can expect to:

Learn basic clay modelling techniques
Create a handmade Ganesha idol
Interact with artisans familiar with South Indian craft traditions
Explore an eco-friendly approach to Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations
Gain insight into living craft practices preserved through generations

Event Details

Event	Details
Workshop Name	Clay Ganesha Workshop
Venue	DakshinaChitra, Tamil Nadu
Date	12 September 2026
Time	10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Fee	₹580 (materials included)
Organiser	DakshinaChitra
Registration	Call +91 9342189678 (Advance registration required)

The participation fee is ₹580 per person, and all materials required for the session will be provided by the organisers.

Registration Information

Interested participants are encouraged to register in advance to secure a place in the workshop. The fee includes all materials needed to create and take home a completed clay Ganesha idol.

Takeaway

The Clay Ganesha Workshop at DakshinaChitra combines festival traditions, craft learning, and sustainable practices in a single session. By working alongside artisans and creating an eco-friendly idol, participants can engage directly with South India’s continuing craft heritage while preparing for Ganesh Chaturthi.

Teachers’ Day 2026 India: Date, History, Significance & Celebrations

By

Somya Goel

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September 5, 2026

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Teachers are often referred to as “nation builders,” not only as part of the popular slogan, but genuinely as their responsibility is to shape young minds, with values, as future citizens to respectfully take on their responsibilities with courage and wisdom. Teachers’ Day in India is a celebration of gratitude towards educators, mentors, and guides who shape our lives.

Teachers’ Day 2026 Date in India

Teachers’ Day	Details
Date	5 September 2026 (Saturday)
Significance	Birth of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Theme	Inspiring minds, building the nation
First Observed in India	1962
Common ways of celebrating	Assemblies, performances by students, role reversal, gifts and token of love.

In India, Teachers’ Day 2026 will be celebrated on Saturday, September 5, 2026. The date marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s most respected philosophers, educators, and statesmen.

Once, when students asked to celebrate his birthday, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan responded that instead, he would like the students to dedicate a day to the teachers. It was a single suggestion that made his birthday into a nationwide display of respect. From 1962 onward September 5 is in every Indian calendar as Teachers’ Day. Thereby, it is not simply a celebration of one man’s vision, but also the recognition of a profession.

What is the History of Teachers’ Day in India?

Radhakrishnan was a philosopher, scholar, and statesman. He dedicated his life to the pursuit of both education and knowledge. He obtained great stature in both the study of comparative religion and Indian philosophy, and the world embraced his scholarship. Additionally, in his capacity of being a professor at Calcutta and Oxford Universities, he was a beloved educator.

“Instead of Celebrating My Birthday, It Would Be My Proud Privilege if September 5th Is Observed as Teachers’ Day.”

— Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1954, which is India’s highest civilian honour, and it would seem that this only confirmed his influence in education and philosophy. When he became Vice President of India and then as President of India, Radhakrishnan, advocated education as the catalyst for national development.

On his birthday, his students wanted to celebrate Radhakrishnan but he asked that the day be devoted to all educators in a gesture that seized the imaginations of the nation. On September 05, 1962 Teacher’s Day was celebrated for the first time in India and has since continued for about seven decades. Although the day has changed over the decades, its meaning has never altered, which is a common act of recognition and gratitude for those who illuminated the path of knowledge.

Importance of Teachers’ Day

In recent years, Teachers’ Day celebrations have expanded beyond classrooms, with schools, universities, and online communities using digital platforms to recognize educators through videos, social media tributes, and virtual events.

Moral Responsibility, Honor, and Dedication: Teachers spend many hours preparing lessons, assessing work, mentoring students and often go above and beyond the expectations for their position. Teachers’ Day provides an opportunity to thank teachers for their patience and sacrifice.
Education, the Foundation of Society: Society cannot make plans for its future without recognizing education as the first step.
Strengthening teacher-student bond: Teacher’s Day marks the day when teachers and students interact in a fun way in the classroom. No talks about studies or academics, only fun and joy!

How Teachers’ Day is Celebrated in India?

In India, the school and colleges transform into celebratory venues of creativity and appreciation every year. The celebrations tend to include the following:

1. Morning Assembly

The day begins with assemblies which usually include prayers, speeches and tributes to the teachers. Often students prepare eloquent talks on the life of Dr.Radhakrishnan or recount stories of the impact a teacher has had on them.

2. Cultural Program

Be it songs from the guru-shishya parampara or dramatisations of classroom anecdotes, cultural programmes are robust components of the festivities. Students get to show their talents to entertain and honour their teachers.

3. Role Reversal Activities

This is probably the most awaited tradition – students play the role of teachers for a day. They teach, explain, describe a process, and carry the burden of responsibility that comes with teaching.

4. Cards & Gifts

Teachers are gifted handmade cards, flowers, or other thoughtful gifts as tokens of appreciation. Often very small, but possesses lots of sentiment for teachers.

5. Award Felicitations

Schools, colleges, institutions or even the government, will felicitats teachers by awards and extend official certificates.Every year, the National Teachers’ Awards honour outstanding educators from across the country for their contribution to teaching and student development. The awards are presented by the President of India.

6. Digital Tribute

Students can make posts, snippets, and short reels or videos for their teachers on digital platforms. An Instagram post or a story with a cool caption can never go wrong.

Conclusion

Teachers’ Day is more than a celebration it is an opportunity to acknowledge the lasting impact of educators on individuals and society. As India continues to evolve, the role of teachers in nurturing knowledge, values, and critical thinking remains as important as ever.

When India celebrates Teachers’ Day with assembly events, exhibitions, awards, and digital recognition, it’s still a powerful message, teachers are not just sparking the educational process, they are unveiling the future of the nation. Recognizing them is not just a nicety thing; it is a duty.

Teachers Day Cards

FAQs on Teachers’ Day 2026

Question: Why is Teachers’ Day celebrated on September 5 in India?

Answer: It marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who requested that his birthday be celebrated in honor of all teachers.

Question: Why is Teachers’ Day celebrated on September 5 in India?

Answer: It marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who requested that his birthday be celebrated in honor of all teachers.

Question: What is the difference between Teachers’ Day in India and World Teachers’ Day?

Answer: India celebrates Teachers’ Day on September 5 to honour Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birth anniversary, while World Teachers’ Day is observed on October 5 and was established by UNESCO to recognize the role of teachers globally.

Question: How do schools celebrate Teachers’ Day in India?

Answer: They organize assemblies, cultural events, role-reversal activities, and give cards, gifts, and digital tributes to teachers. Awards are also presented to honor exceptional educators.

Question: Is Teachers’ Day 2026 a public holiday?

Answer: No, it is not a public holiday. Schools and colleges function but dedicate the day to special programs.

Question: What are the best ways to honor teachers on this day?

Answer: Writing heartfelt notes, making handmade gifts, actively participating in events, and expressing gratitude, both offline and online, are meaningful ways to honor teachers.

Naresh Kumar Kumawat Showcases India’s Monumental Art at the 102nd International Tokyo Festival

By

Nagaraj

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September 4, 2026

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Renowned Indian sculptor Naresh Kumar Kumawat is representing India at the 102nd International Tokyo Festival, where he has been invited to present his artworks and discuss the traditions and concepts of India’s monumental sculpture. His participation has been facilitated by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, as part of efforts to promote India’s artistic and cultural heritage internationally.

Representing India on an International Platform

The festival provides an international platform for artists and cultural practitioners from different countries. Kumawat’s participation places Indian monumental sculpture in front of a global audience while highlighting the historical narratives, national symbols and cultural traditions reflected in his work. According to the artist, monumental sculpture serves as a visual medium through which history, ideas and collective memory can be preserved and communicated.

A Career Built Around Monumental Sculpture

Naresh Kumar Kumawat is widely known for large-scale sculptures that combine traditional artistic symbolism with contemporary techniques. According to information available on his official portfolio, he comes from a family with a long sculptural tradition and has been involved in major public and commemorative projects across India. His works include sculptures of national leaders, spiritual figures and historical personalities, many of which occupy prominent public spaces.

His artistic practice focuses on preserving cultural memory through monumental forms, allowing audiences to engage with historical and spiritual narratives in public settings. This emphasis on heritage and identity remains central to his work and is reflected in his presentation at the Tokyo festival.

Cultural Exchange Between India and Japan

A key aspect of Kumawat’s participation is the role of art in strengthening cultural dialogue between India and Japan. Organisers and participants view such exchanges as opportunities to introduce audiences to different artistic traditions while encouraging mutual understanding.

Kumawat noted that representing India at the event is both an honour and a responsibility. He described sculpture as a medium that gives lasting visual form to a nation’s history, values and ideas. Through exhibitions and discussions, he aims to share the story of India’s monumental art with Japanese audiences and contribute to cultural engagement between the two countries.

Previous Engagements in Japan

The artist’s relationship with Japan extends beyond the current festival. According to the press release, his works have previously been exhibited in Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, helping maintain a continuing presence for Indian sculpture in Japan. These engagements have enabled Japanese audiences to encounter aspects of Indian history, culture and artistic traditions through sculpture.

Visit to the Indian Pavilion

During the festival, the Indian Pavilion received a visit from Mr. R. Madhu Sudan, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Japan. The diplomat viewed Kumawat’s works and acknowledged his contribution to promoting Indian monumental art internationally.

Kumawat presented the Deputy Chief of Mission with a small model of one of his Hanuman sculptures as a gesture of respect and cultural exchange. According to the artist, the work symbolises spiritual values and reflects principles associated with Hindu philosophy while also representing India’s sculptural traditions.

Festival Highlights

The Tokyo Festival is one of Japan’s major international cultural events and brings together artists, performers and cultural organisations from around the world. The 2026 edition runs from 1 September to 3 November across multiple venues in Tokyo and aims to promote international cultural exchange through the arts.

Highlights related to Kumawat’s participation:

Presentation of India’s monumental sculpture traditions
Display of artworks inspired by Indian history and culture
Cultural dialogue between Indian and Japanese audiences
Engagement with diplomatic and cultural representatives
Promotion of Indian artistic heritage on a global stage

Significance for Indian Art

Kumawat’s participation reflects the growing international visibility of Indian public and monumental art. By presenting sculptures rooted in India’s historical and cultural narratives, he contributes to broader conversations about heritage, memory and artistic identity. The event also creates opportunities for Indian artists and creative institutions to strengthen connections with the global cultural community.

The Tokyo appearance represents another chapter in Kumawat’s continuing efforts to bring Indian monumental sculpture to international audiences. Beyond the exhibition itself, the participation underscores the role of art as a medium for cultural communication and cross-border understanding.

Final Thoughts

Naresh Kumar Kumawat’s participation in the 102nd International Tokyo Festival highlights the continuing global presence of Indian monumental sculpture. By presenting works rooted in history, spirituality and cultural memory, the artist contributes to artistic dialogue between India and Japan. The event demonstrates how public art can serve as a bridge between cultures while expanding international awareness of India’s sculptural traditions.

Linocut Printmaking Workshop with Poorva Shingre at JNAF Mumbai

By

Nagaraj

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September 4, 2026

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JNAF Mumbai is organising a hands-on linocut printmaking workshop led by visual artist and designer Poorva Shingre. The beginner-friendly session takes inspiration from the prints of Krishna Reddy currently on view at JNAF and introduces participants to the fundamentals of linocut printmaking.

Event Overview

The workshop offers an opportunity to experiment with a new artistic medium while learning the process of designing, carving, and printing a linocut. Participants will create their own personalised hand-carved print and gain an understanding of basic printmaking techniques.

Poorva Shingre brings more than 12 years of experience in graphic design and illustration. Over the past five years, she has worked extensively with printmaking processes including linocut and screen printing.

What Participants Can Expect

During the workshop, participants can expect to:

Learn the basics of linocut printmaking
Create a personalised hand-carved linocut design
Explore techniques inspired by Krishna Reddy’s printmaking practice
Receive practical tips for continuing printmaking independently
Take home a printing kit included in the workshop fee

No prior experience is required.

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Registration Information

Event	Details
Title	Linocut Printmaking Workshop
Facilitator	Poorva Shingre
Venue	JNAF Mumbai
Registration	Via link in JNAF Mumbai bio – Direct link
Registration Fee	INR 3500. (inclusive of Museum ticket fee and a take home lino cut kit)

All materials will be provided during the workshop. The ticket fee includes a home printing kit for continued practice after the session.

Seats are limited and advance registration is recommended through the registration link available in JNAF Mumbai’s bio.

Takeaway

This workshop offers an introduction to linocut printmaking through practical, hands-on learning. Drawing inspiration from Krishna Reddy’s works on display at JNAF Mumbai, participants will have the opportunity to develop new skills while creating their own original print.

Teachers’ Day Celebration Ideas 2026: 10 Creative Ways for Students

By

Somya Goel

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September 4, 2026

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Why Celebrate Teachers’ Day?

Every year on September 5, students across India come together to celebrate Teachers’ Day a day to remember our teachers who have guided through the years and express gratitude to the educators who inspire, guide, and shape their future. Whether through heartfelt gestures, creative performances, or thoughtful tributes, Teachers’ Day 2026 offers an opportunity to make teachers feel truly appreciated.

The Significance of Teachers’ Day

There is no randomness to this date. It happens to be the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s greatest Presidents, a master philosopher, and respected teacher.

When he was asked by students if they could celebrate his birthday, he said, if they wanted to celebrate anything, he would prefer it be Teachers’ Day.
This was a profound moment and has been celebrated every year since.
It is a confident and pleasurable manner of respecting teachers.
Rooted in that is a tradition established across the country to acknowledge the work, effort, and thoughtfulness of teachers towards their students.

Teachers Beyond the Classroom

Education is not solely the profession of a teacher’s lesson. They are role models, cheerleaders and quite frequently the first adults who notice the potential in a child. They develop character, create curiosity and instill confidence. here are 10 unique ways to celebrate Teachers’ Day in 2026.

List of Teachers’ Day Celebration Ideas

Idea	Description
Classroom Tribute	Decorate the classroom with balloons and ribbons and make your teachers feel special.
Cultural Programs	Organise skits, plays, dance performances, etc to make the event interesting.
Greeting Cards	Greeting cards can never go wrong. Make heartfelt messages for your teachers; personalized messages would be better.
Video Montage	Make a simple video with a meaningful song for your teachers. This will surely bring tears of joy in their eyes.
Role Reversal	This tradition of acting as teachers on this day shall never be discontinued.
Group Performance	Prepare group performances – dance, music, song, etc, to make the day memorable.
Gifts	You can get a not-so-expensive gift for your teachers that will always stay with them.
Green Initiative	Plant trees and slings on this meaningful day.
Memory Wall	Create a wall where students post notes, drawings, or memories about their teachers. Later, compile them into a keepsake scrapbook.

1. Arrange a Classroom Tribute

Simply creating a space of pleasure in the classroom would be one of the easiest and most effective ways to celebrate. Students could decorate with fabric, banners, flower arrangements, and posters with appreciative messages. It’s amazing how a teacher entering a room that they are used to, can come into a room that looks so bright and joyful and realize that they are appreciated.

Making a warm surprise welcome could set a nice tone for the day, whether it is applauding, greeting or singing “Happy Teachers’ Day”. A nice personal touch is to add little thankyou notes pinned about the classroom, or chalk board doodles.

2. Deliver a Cultural Program

A cultural program engages a whole school community, as opposed to individual classes. Cultural programs allow students to creatively express their gratitude.

Students can enact skits that mirror the life of a teacher (with lots of students acting funny or full of admiration), dance performances, and poetry readings as part of the colourful, warm offerings. The energy of cultural programs does not necessarily come from the performances, but from what they represent, the entire school community celebrating together, students in rehearsals, teachers observing in pride, students and teachers (and the school) celebrating together.

3. Customized Greeting Cards and Letters

Students can also create letters expressing gratitude, and detailing when a teacher’s advice, extra encouragement or, even extra discipline made a difference for them. Many teachers keep notes like these for years, as reminders of the lives they have influenced.

4. Surprise Video or Photo montage

In today’s technology-filled world, a video or photo montage is a potentially priceless gift. Students are capable of gathering photos from the class, pictures of fun activities, and even short video greetings from classmates.

When these are all made into a short film and shown to the teacher they now have an emotional journey, which may consist of happy memories, giggles, or hopefully tears of joy. These digital dedications stay with teachers for years, long after the celebration has ended.

5. Themed Fancy Dress or Role Reversal Play

One of the funniest traditions is role reversal, where students dress as teachers and conduct mock classes. With this, teachers can also enjoy seeing their quirky habits and mannerisms portrayed by often unknowing little “versions” of the teachers, allowing for lots of funny content.

6. Group Performance of Songs or Poems

Music and poetry both capture emotion beautifully. Students can lovingly unite as a group to either make an original poem or simply sing a song to the teachers.

Whether it is a touching group song sung in unison or a funny poem recited on stage, the creative aspect gives a uniqueness to show gratitude. The collaborative aspect of creating groups of students also gives a sense of community.

7. Digital Tributes on Social Media

Celebration is not limited to physical spaces today, and a student’s gratitude can now be expressed digitally by recognizing their teachers by way of posts, reels, and hashtags.

Recognizing a teacher’s accomplishments, telling brief stories about how they inspired the class or simply sending a thank you social media message, can take the celebration to a new level. For the teachers, knowing those promotions will be seen publically adds another level of joy to the experiences.

8. Plant a Tree or Green Initiative

Teachers cultivate growth similar to how trees cultivate life. We encourage students to use Teacher’s Day to engage in green initiatives such as planting a tree or introducing a small school garden. Whatever initiative is done individually or as a school community, each tree planted in honour of a teacher is a living memory as it grows year after year, just like students grow in the noble values a teacher instills. Other initiatives can also include recycling projects, including projects like clean-up days or campaigns to fight against plastic.

9. Gift Tokens of Appreciation

The communication of appreciation is the value of the gift. In fact, simple gifts, for example, books, plants, or even personalised stationery would be valued more than expensive gifts. The goal should always be to make gifts meaningful. Plants, pens, cards, chocolates, and other inexpensive things are always cherished by teachers.

10. Organize a “Memory Wall”

Create a dedicated space in the school corridor or classroom where students can put up sticky notes, drawings, or short written memories about their teachers. Each student can share a special moment, lesson, or funny anecdote that made a lasting impact.

The wall becomes a visual tapestry of appreciation.
Teachers can walk by, read, and relive heartfelt memories.
It’s interactive, creative, and allows even shy students to express gratitude.
Later, the notes can be collected into a scrapbook as a keepsake.

Conclusion

Teachers’ Day 2025 is more than gifts, events, and decorations – it’s about recognizing the great value and contributions of teachers in shaping lives. The room may be filled with flowers, a letter may be written, or a tree may be planted, it is not about the event, it is about the as it stems.

For teachers, the greatest thing for one to receive is to see the time given is appreciated. For students, it is a celebration. It gives us students a chance to do something for the people who have given us immensely.

FAQs on Teachers’ Day Celebration

Question: What is the best activity for Teacher’s Day?

Answer: Organizing a cultural program with songs, skits, or poems is one of the best activities. It allows students to show gratitude in a creative way.

Question: How can I make my Teachers’ Day special?

Answer: You can make the day special by writing heartfelt notes, decorating classrooms, preparing small gifts, or even planning a surprise welcome for teachers.

Question: Which game is best for Teachers’ Day?

Answer: Fun role-reversal games where students act as teachers are very popular. Quiz contests and light indoor games also keep the day lively and engaging.

Question: How do you celebrate Teachers’ Day?

Answer: Celebrations often include assemblies, cultural performances, group songs, greeting cards, digital tributes, and honoring teachers with awards or tokens.

Question: Which is the best color for Teachers’ Day?

Answer: Yellow and white are often chosen as they symbolize respect, positivity, and purity. Students also wear bright colors to bring joy to the occasion.

Aaveg: Between the Finite and the Infinite Brings Vasant Dora’s Vision to India Habitat Centre New Delhi

By

Nagaraj

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September 3, 2026

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A solo exhibition by artist and architect Vasant Dora, titled Aaveg: Between the Finite and the Infinite, will be presented at the Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, from 8 to 11 September 2026. Curated by Jyoti A Kathpalia, the exhibition brings together two interconnected bodies of work that examine the relationship between the physical world and spiritual experience through painting, colour and form.

From Architecture to Art

Born in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, Vasant Dora studied at Chandigarh College of Architecture before completing a master’s degree at the State University of New York at Buffalo. He began his professional career in Chicago and later returned to India, where he led his own architectural consultancy for nearly four decades. Alongside architecture, Dora developed an artistic practice informed by design, philosophy, poetry and spirituality. His artistic journey was influenced early by his father, who was also an artist.

Dora has previously exhibited internationally, including at Agora Gallery in New York, and has continued to build a practice that draws upon both architectural thinking and personal reflection.

Two Series in Conversation

The exhibition is structured around two distinct yet connected series: Habitat Scapes and Samsara. Together, they form a visual dialogue on human existence.

Habitat Scapes focuses on urban environments, architecture and inhabited spaces. The works reflect Dora’s engagement with cities, structures and the built landscape that shapes everyday life.

Samsara, by contrast, moves into a more philosophical territory. Drawing on concepts associated with Shiva and Shakti, purusha and prakriti, the series considers the cyclical nature of existence and the relationship between matter and energy.

According to the artist, the exhibition attempts to explore how human life exists simultaneously within rational structures and emotional, spiritual forces.

Highlights of the Exhibition

Two major series: Habitat Scapes and Samsara
Paintings informed by architecture, philosophy and spirituality
Exploration of urban environments and metaphysical ideas
Works examining the relationship between matter and energy
A dialogue between built forms and inner experience

Curatorial Perspective

Curator Jyoti A Kathpalia describes the exhibition as a convergence of Dora’s multiple identities as architect, thinker, poet and spiritual observer. She notes that traces of architectural grids coexist with expressive colours and poetic references throughout the works.

The exhibition seeks to position architecture not simply as a physical construct but as a framework within which human aspirations, emotions and spiritual questions unfold. This perspective forms a central thread linking the two series on display.

Visitor Information

Event Name	Details
Artist	Aaveg: Between the Finite and the Infinite
Artist	Vasant Dora
Curator	Jyoti A Kathpalia
Venue	Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre
City	New Delhi
Opening Date	8 September 2026
Exhibition Dates	8–11 September 2026
Timings	10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Organiser	Visual Arts Gallery, India Habitat Centre
Website	https://www.indiahabitat.org

Examining the Finite and the Infinite

Through Aaveg: Between the Finite and the Infinite, Vasant Dora brings together decades of experience in architecture and a sustained engagement with artistic and spiritual inquiry. By placing urban landscapes alongside reflections on existence and energy, the exhibition invites viewers to consider the connections between the spaces people inhabit and the larger cycles that shape human life. In doing so, it offers an opportunity to reflect on the intersections of art, design, philosophy and culture within a contemporary Indian context.

Priyanka Aelay’s Solo Exhibition “It Will Rain Again When We Meet” to Open at KYNKYNY Mumbai

By

Nagaraj

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September 2, 2026

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KYNKYNY Art Gallery in Mumbai will present “It Will Rain Again When We Meet,” a solo exhibition by Hyderabad-based artist Priyanka Aelay from 9th September to 1st October. The exhibition brings together a new body of paintings centred on forests, folklore, ecology, and visual storytelling. Hosted at the gallery’s recently opened Mumbai space in Kala Ghoda, the exhibition offers viewers immersive landscapes where flora, fauna, and mythological references coexist within richly layered compositions.

A Forest Imagined Through Art

Forests occupy a central place in Aelay’s latest works. Her paintings depict expansive terrains filled with dense vegetation, birds, tigers, foxes, and other creatures that emerge from luminous foliage. Working with layered acrylic pigments on linen canvas, she creates environments that move between observation and imagination. The paintings blur distinctions between reality and fantasy, presenting landscapes that feel at once familiar and dreamlike.

Folklore and Visual Storytelling

The exhibition reflects Aelay’s ongoing engagement with film studies and visual culture, fields in which she has also pursued academic research. Her recent work draws inspiration from folklore traditions, particularly narratives that unfold within forests and wilderness. Stories such as Baalanagamma influenced the development of the series, prompting explorations of time, survival, and human relationships with nature.

Several large-scale circular works featured in the exhibition reference moon cycles and natural rhythms. These compositions challenge conventional ways of viewing landscapes while introducing themes connected to feminine symbolism and cyclical time.

Interconnected Ecosystems

A recurring aspect of Aelay’s work is the dissolution of boundaries between different natural environments. In her paintings, ferns may resemble corals, waterways become skies, and terrestrial and aquatic forms merge into one another. The visual language suggests ecological interdependence and coexistence rather than separation.

Animals appear throughout the works either alone or in groups, acting as symbolic stand-ins for human presence. Through these motifs, the artist constructs contemplative spaces that encourage viewers to consider relationships between living beings and their environments.

Artistic Practice and Background

Born in Hyderabad in 1990, Priyanka Aelay is known for paintings that combine contemporary art practices with influences from Telangana’s folk traditions and Indian miniature painting. She completed her Master of Fine Arts at Hyderabad Central University and later earned a doctorate in Film Studies and Visual Culture from the English and Foreign Languages University. Her work has been exhibited in India and internationally, and she has participated in artist residencies including programmes in Bordeaux, France, and New Delhi.

Her paintings are recognised for their intricate depictions of flora and fauna, vibrant colour palettes, and non-linear spatial arrangements that invite viewers into immersive visual worlds.

Exhibition Highlights

New paintings inspired by forests, folklore, and mythology
Large-scale circular canvases exploring moon cycles and natural rhythms
Acrylic works on linen canvas featuring interconnected ecosystems
Visual references to Telangana folk traditions and Indian miniature painting
Themes of coexistence, ecology, and contemplative observation

Visitor Information

Event	Details
Title	It Will Rain Again When We Meet
Artist	Priyanka Aelay
Venue	KYNKYNY Art Gallery
City	Mumbai
Opening Date	9th September
Exhibition Dates	9th September – 1st October
Organiser	KYNKYNY Art Gallery

Visitors can find additional information through KYNKYNY Art Gallery, follow updates on KYNKYNY Instagram, or learn more about Priyanka Aelay’s practice.

Takeaway

With “It Will Rain Again When We Meet,” Priyanka Aelay continues her exploration of nature, folklore, and imagination through intricate contemporary painting. By bringing together mythic narratives and ecological themes, the exhibition invites audiences to reflect on interconnected forms of life and the cultural stories that shape our understanding of the natural world. Presented at KYNKYNY’s new Mumbai space, the exhibition contributes to ongoing conversations around landscape, memory, and environmental awareness in contemporary Indian art.