Retrospective ShowVeteran Artist Vipta Kapadia’s I Contours of Infinity I at Jehangir Art Gallery

 Veteran Artist Vipta Kapadia’s Retrospective Exhibition – Contours of Infinity

21st January – 27th January 2025 | at Jehangir Art Gallery, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai

‘Contours of Infinity,’ is a solo retrospective showcasing the celebrated artist Vipta Kapadia's five decades of extraordinary work. Curated by Sushma Sabnis, this monumental exhibition runs from 21st to 27th January 2025 and offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the evolution of Kapadia’s iconic artistic journey.

Artist: Vipta Kapadia  

Kapadia's evolution, beginning with early abstract works and culminating in masterful multi-layered compositions, has redefined the expressive language of contemporary Indian art. This exhibition celebrates the artist's lifelong commitment to exploring the emotional and cultural subtleties of abstraction, providing viewers with an exceptional overview of her extensive body of work. With her works spanning oil and acrylic on canvas, enamel on metal, and mixed media, Kapadia’s art continues to evoke visceral responses, blending the poetic with the profound.

Vipta Kapadia, a graduate of Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, embarked on her artistic journey in the 1970s amidst a burgeoning wave of modernism. Inspired by post-independence Indian art movements and global Abstract Expressionism, her artwork incorporates vivid colours, complex textures, and symbolic motifs that appeal to both Eastern and Western sensibilities. Her work exemplifies the transformative power of creativity, demonstrating a balance between dynamic experimentation and a strong connection to her Indian cultural heritage.

Kapadia shows remarkable adaptability and innovation through her engagement with an array of media, including traditional canvases and unconventional materials like old vinyl records and metal. Her enamel works, a part of this display, offer a dreamlike interplay of light and shadow, reflecting her fearless embrace of the unpredictable alchemy of art-making.

In the words of curator Sushma Sabnis, ‘this retrospective transcends a mere art collection. Kapadia's artworks call forth landscapes of memory, nostalgia and imagination, transforming abstract shapes into concrete representations of life's journey.’ With themes ranging from nature’s delicate balance to the relentless pace of urban transformation, each artwork serves as a nuanced, intimate dialogue between the artist and her viewers.

The exhibition also celebrates Kapadia’s role as an educator and mentor, whose community engagement has brought art into the lives of diverse audiences. Her belief in art’s transformative potential transcends elitism, forging connections that blur the boundaries between the self and the world.

Join us as we honour veteran artist  Vipta Kapadia’s unparalleled contribution to Indian art. Contours of Infinity is a celebration of her artistic vision and a reflection of the resilience and adaptability that define her legacy.

Exhibition Details:
Dates: 21st January – 27th January 2025 Venue: Jehangir Art Gallery, 161-B, M.G. Road, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai

(11am - 7 pm)

Curator: Sushma Sabnis

For further information, interviews, or press inquiries, please contact:
Email: artist_viptakapadia@rediffmail.com
Website: www.viptakapadia.com
Mobile: +91-9820240103

“Inner Tranquility” “Inner Tranquility” Solo Show of Paintings by Renowned artist Nilesh Nikam in Jehangir

 Inner Tranquility is a solo exhibition by the artist Nilesh Dada Nikam, who is renowned for his ability to translate abstract spiritual and religious concepts into evocative visual experiences. Through his latest body of work, Nikam invites viewers to delve into a deep exploration of spirituality, harmony, and the human psyche.

Artist: Nilesh Nikam

Rooted in abstraction yet pulsating with energy, Nikam’s art captures the essence of Stillness (tranquility) in a chaotic world. His works, characterised by intricate textures, layers of colours, and geometrical and rhythmic forms, evoke a meditative resonance. Using a diverse palette of earthy and ethereal tones, the canvases pulsate with a quiet energy, offering a sensory and contemplative experience.

The title Inner Tranquility reflects the artist’s journey toward achieving a serene equilibrium amid life’s dynamic tensions. Each piece is imbued with a sense of balance, drawing inspiration from the natural world and metaphysical concepts. Nikam’s mastery lies in his ability to balance abstraction and corporeal worlds, allowing viewers to interpret and internalise his art in deeply personal ways.

This exhibition also highlights the artist’s distinctive use of texture, where layers of pigment and gestural strokes create a tactile depth, a mesmerising spiral energetic movement, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the narrative embedded within each canvas. The works serve as a visual sanctuary, urging us to pause, reflect, and connect deeply with our inner selves.

Inner Tranquility is an experience that resonates with the universal quest for peace and understanding. Artist Nilesh Dada Nikam’s unique voice, deeply rooted in spiritual inquiry, promises to captivate both seasoned art connoisseurs and new admirers.

Sushma Sabnis

Mumbai

27^th December 2024

Press Release

From: 20^th to 26^th January 2025

“Inner Tranquility” Solo Show of Paintings by Renowned artist Nilesh Nikam

 

VENUE:

Jehangir Art Gallery

161-B, M.G. Road, Kala Ghoda,Mumbai 400 001

Timing: 11am to 7pm.

 

NACIN Palasamudram campus, The initiative reflects Sir JJ School of Art’s commitment to promoting art.

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 27: The National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes and Narcotics (NACIN) organized the ‘Palasamudram National Painting Camp’ in association with the Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design. This prestigious event brought together 25 renowned artists from contemporary Indian art, all distinguished alumni of the Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture, and Design. The camp was organized as part of the beautification through the creation of unique and meaningful artworks.

Artist: Nilesh Kinkale

The painting camp hosted its closing ceremony on at the NACIN campus. Over this period, the celebrated artists contributed their exceptional talents to transform the campus into a vibrant space that reflects the rich cultural heritage and creativity of India. The initiative not only aimed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus but also to provide a platform for fostering artistic exchange and collaboration. The renowned artists – Anil Naik, Bhagwan Chavan from Chennai, Deepak Shinde, Devdatta Padekar, Jyotsna Kadam, Minal Damani, Nilesh Palav, Nilesh Kinkale, Prakash Waghmare, Rahul Vajale, Rajendra Kapse, Rakesh Kumar from Jammu, Sanjeev Sonpimpre, Sanjay Sawant, Shilpa Nikam, Santosh More, Shreekant Dhunde from Hyderabad, Suhas Bahulkar, Shilpa Patole, Vilas Shinde, Vishakha Apte from Bhopal, Vivek Sharma, Kiyomi Talaulicar, Nanda Das from Agartala, and All artists made remarkable contributions to beautification by crafting unique and meaningful artworks.

Artist: Bhagwan Chavan and Shreekant Dhunde at Art Camp

The event was curated and implemented with the joint efforts by Mr. Shashikant Kakade, Registrar, Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design, Mumbai and Prof. Rajanish Kamat, Vice Chancellor, Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design, Mumbai of the institute. Mr. Kakade also graced the event by his august presence.

Art camp Recent works by Deepak Shinde

The artists from Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design showcased a remarkable confluence of art, culture, and creativity to witness the transformation of the Palasamudram campus into a masterpiece of collective imagination.

Shri Gaigongdin Panmei, Principal Director General, NACIN, Palasamudram said, “This painting camp is a unique fusion of art and purpose, symbolizing the power of creativity to inspire and transform spaces. We are honored to host such a talented group of artists who will leave a lasting legacy on our campus.”

Prof. Rajanish Kamat, Vice Chancellor, Sir JJ School of Art, Architecture and Design, Mumbai said, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the participating artists and organizers for their dedication to this initiative. The National Painting Camp at Palasamudram is not only a celebration of artistic excellence but also a testament to the enduring partnership between NACIN and the Sir JJ School of Art.”

Artsit: Prakash Waghmare

The artworks created during this camp will become an integral part of the NACIN Palasamudram campus, enriching the environment for trainees and visitors alike. The initiative reflects Sir JJ School of Art’s commitment to promoting art, culture and education in harmony. Through this event, we aim to establish Palasamudram as a hub of artistic and intellectual inspiration, paving the way for future collaborations in the field of art and design.

In Association with
Sir J. J. School of Art, Architecture and Design,
Mumbai, MH.
National Academy of Customs,
Indirect Taxes & Narcotics, Palasamudram, AP
Present
Painting Camp
Renowned Contemporary Indian Artists
at
( JJ alumni)
13- 19 December 2024
National Academy of Customs,
Indirect Taxes & Narcotics,(NACIN)
Palasamudram, Andhra Pradesh.

The Spectrum of Colours 2025"

The Spectrum of Colours 2025" brings together a diverse group of India's most renowned artists, showcasing the rich tapestry of contemporary and traditional Indian culture. This vibrant exhibition celebrates the country's artistic heritage, from intricate folk art to cutting-edge modern masterpieces.

Witness the Evolution of Art at Svarang's Grand Launch and Solo Show

Svarang Art Initiative invites you to explore the extraordinary works of well-known artist Kanchan Todi, a self-taught visionary whose abstract paintings combine spirituality, emotion, and creativity. The exhibition will be held from January 10th to 12th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM at the Bombay Art Society, Bandra (opposite Rangsharda). Curated by the renowned Ms. Varsha Karale, the event celebrates Kanchan’s artistic journey and powerful visual stories.

Artist: Kanchan Todi

We are honored to have Chief Guest Shri Shriraj Nair (Spokesperson – VHP) and Guests of Honor, including Shri Neeraj Agarwal (Addl. Director General – Doordarshan), Smt. Aparna Mayekar (renowned singer), Ms. Iravati Harshe (versatile actress), along with Shri Ajay Kaul, Mrs. Rati Hegde, Shri Ajay De, Shri Navin Agarwal, and Shri Sanjay Arora on 10^th January 2025 at 4.30pm. Their connection to art and creativity will add a unique dimension to this event.

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About Svarang Art Initiative

Svarang Art Initiative, co-founded by entrepreneur, philanthropist, and artist Kanchan Todi, along with Vikrant Shitole, a master artist, and Aashish Rego, a renowned composer and global music expert, is dedicated to supporting artists and promoting diverse forms of creativity. Their mission is to create a platform that nurtures innovation, expression, and artistic excellence, making it a privilege to feature Kanchan’s exceptional work as part of their vision.

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About Kanchan Todi

Born in 1974, Kanchan Todi is a dynamic individual who combines her spiritual journey, artistic passion, and social commitment in her work. Her art reflects her free-spirited nature and goes beyond traditional boundaries, offering profound insights into her emotions and thoughts.

Kanchan’s creative process is deeply meditative and inspired by celestial energy. Drawing from Abstract Expressionism, her vibrant works explore themes such as Sacred Feminine Rising, Womb Journey, Flight of Soul, and Soul Evolution. Her art resonates with the concept of Hiranya-garbha—the golden womb of creation.

Recent works by Kanchan Todi 

Beyond her art, Kanchan has dedicated herself to uplifting underprivileged communities through The Kanchan Foundation. Her efforts focus on mental health support for children and vocational training for women in Navi Mumbai, blending her artistic vision with her commitment to social change.

Her work has even gained recognition at the Swaminarayan Temple in Abu Dhabi, where the high priest praised its ability to “create new waves and channels to other dimensions.”

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Why You Should Attend

This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience Kanchan Todi’s abstract masterpieces—a blend of art, spirituality, and social purpose. Each painting is a doorway to a deeper understanding of the human spirit, inspiring and moving viewers with its emotional and spiritual depth.

Additionally noted Art Director Snigdha Karmahe will be bringing Kanchan’s art to life with her own brand of immersive reality. A not to be missed opportunity to experience the unique!

Don’t miss this chance to witness art that transcends the canvas and touches the soul. We look forward to welcoming you to Cosmic Imprints.

Venue:

The Bombay Art Society

K.C. Marg, Opp. Rang Sharda,

Reclamation, Bandra(West), Mumbai 400 050

+91 7208050006 / +91 9819992161

Timing: 11am to 7.30pm

 

Art Vista Presents "The Spectrum of Colours 2025" - An Enchanting Celebration of Contemporary Indian Art

 Mumbai, India – Art Vista is thrilled to announce its latest curatorial marvel, "The Spectrum of Colours 2025", a mesmerizing art exhibition that unites the profound creativity of India's celebrated and emerging artists. This vibrant showcase will take place at the iconic Cymroza Art Gallery, located at Breach Candy, Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai, from 7th to 13th January 2025.  Directed by the visionary Mrs. Kirti Gaikwad, this week-long event will feature an extraordinary collection of paintings and sculptures, brought to life by the unique perspectives and talents of India’s finest artists. The lineup includes renowned names such as Kumar Gaikwad, Pradip Sarkar, Vinay Sane, Mahaling R. Hosakoti, Vishwajeet Naik, Soumen Saha, and Dinkar Jadhav, among others. Additionally, promising talents like Mita Vora, Rakhee Shah, and Sandesh Khule will add their fresh and dynamic voices to this eclectic mix.  

Artist: P J Stalin

The Spectrum of Colours 2025" is a celebration of India’s rich artistic heritage and contemporary innovation, featuring traditional motifs, vibrant palettes, and textured creations. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience the profound interplay between seasoned artistry and youthful imagination, providing a window into the evolving cultural landscape of modern India.  

Art enthusiasts, collectors, and cultural connoisseurs are invited to immerse themselves in this unique artistic journey, where the old meets the new, and tradition merges seamlessly with innovation.  

About Art Vista 

Art Vista is a pioneering online platform dedicated to democratizing art collection, offering a wide range of artworks that cater to diverse tastes and budgets. With a strong commitment to trust and authenticity, Art Vista connects renowned artists with budding collectors through secure and seamless transactions. By bridging the gap between the physical and digital art worlds, Art Vista continues to make art accessible and inspiring for all.  

"The Spectrum of Colours 2025" brings together a diverse group of India's most renowned artists, showcasing the rich tapestry of contemporary and traditional Indian culture. This vibrant exhibition celebrates the country's artistic heritage, from intricate folk art to cutting-edge modern masterpieces.

Featured artists include: This spectacular group show promises to be a visual feast, highlighting the incredible diversity and creativity of Indian art. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the dynamic colours, textures, and emotions that define India's vibrant artistic landscape. Join us at "The Spectrum of Colours 2025" as we celebrate the essence of creativity, culture, and collaboration in the heart of Mumbai's vibrant art scene.

Artists in show:

Anjiya Naik, Ajay Chandak, Dinkar Jadhav, Gopal Roy, Gopal Pardeshi, J. Venkateshwarlu, Kumar Gaikwad, Kantha Reddy, Lakhan Singh Jat, Mita Vora, Mahaling R Hosakoti, Nagesh Ghodke, Neha Dua, Prakash Bal Joshi, Pradip Sarkar, P J Stalin, Paras Parmar, Ravindra Pawar, Ramu Maredu, Rakhee Shah, Sanjay Tikkal, Sandesh Khule, Somnath Bothe, Soumen Saha, Shanthi Vinjamuri, Sarvesh Patil, Vishal Phasale, Vivek Nimbolkar, Vishwajeet Naik, Vinay Sane.

Artist: Gopal Pardeshi

Mrs. Kirti Gaikwad

Director
ArtVista

Venue: Cymroza Art Gallery

Date:7th to 13th January 2025.  

Entry: Free

Address: 72, Bhulabhai Desai Marg, Breach Candy, Cumballa Hill, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400026

For more details, visit www.artvista.in or contact Art Vista directly.

“Me -& -MYSELF” A series of recent Work by Dipti Shukla

Dipti Shukla creates inner spaces of a woman’s life in her paintings, which are connected with her concept of “Home.” Yet, these rooms are empty and so are the chairs, but with a unique mastery, she lends life-and-soul to her work with simple objects of daily life and transforms them into living spaces. Dipti is also known for her glass paintings, where she paints portraits and interiors. Through her work, she also makes pictorial comments on women, as she paints a sewing machine, composed against a wall covered garments. 

Dipti Shukla

Dipti is a talented artist and paints in her own unique style, as she expresses her thoughts with a poetic use of bright colours and flowing outlines. Dipti has painted chairs, which are made of wood and have different shapes. These are composed in the inner spaces of her home. She explains, each chair is symbolic of her family members, as each chair belonged to a certain person from her family of educationists and teachers, as they sat in these chairs imparting education to young people, and she has followed the same path. So, the chairs are symbolic of her family and home. Each chair is painted as an empty form, yet in its curves and lines, one feels the presence of her family members. 

These chair and are part of her collective memory of family, especially when she paints a rocking chair arranged with cushions. These chairs exude warmth and a life of their own, as around each form, she has placed visual elements, like a teacup, a curtain, a carpet, a window, a tree with yellow flowers, a table, a scarf, a photo-frame, books, a money-plant placed on a window-sill and her pet dog, who waits for her; to return back home. In this way, masterfully, Dipti connects inanimate forms with the animate, which she paints with a simple, expressive and artistic memoir of family histories. Through these paintings, Dipti expresses a strong feeling for her family, as each form seems to say, ”I exist…as my family is where life begins, and love never ends…”

- Esther David

ये कुर्सी है. संवादों और विवादों में भाग लेती है ये कुर्सी। बातों में घूमती है ये कुर्सी। किसी के सुख-दुख की गवाह बनती ये कुर्सी ||

सत्ता में खोई हुई, सज्जन के दिल की धड़कन है ये कुर्सी। सही-गलत के सुजाव को निष्पक्ष स्थान पे रखती है ये कुर्सी ॥एक लेखक के विचारों को बयां करती है ये कुर्सी। सपने देखते, पढ़ते और सोचते, मंदमंद मुस्कुराती है ये कुर्सी ॥

इस स्थान पर नई है ये कुर्सी। दीपू और ब्रिंदा की हंसी. और कई कहानियाँ रचती है ये कुर्सी ||

- आर्कि. बिंदा पार्थ शाह, राजकोट

Show at MUMBAI

Tuesday: 24 - 28 December 2024

Tuesday: 5:30 pm to 7pm

Wed. to Sat. - 3 pm to 7 pm

Dipti Shukla ( Artist) M: +91 93275 05906

E-mail (jayeshshuklaart@gmail.com)

at

NIPPON Gallery

30/32, Deval Chambers, 2nd Floor,Flora Fountain, 

Nanabhai Lane, Fort, MUMBAI 400 001

Entry: Free

"Mother's Embrace" A Photography Exhibition by Renowned Photographer Devendra Naik in Jehangir

Mumbai’s iconic Jehangir Art Gallery will soon host a touching photography exhibition titled "Mother's Embrace" by renowned photographer Devendra Naik. This exhibition explores the profound bond between a mother and her child, capturing a relationship defined by care, sacrifice, and unconditional love through a series of compelling photographs.

Devendra Naik

"A mother’s embrace is more than just a physical touch—it’s a profound experience of pure, selfless affection," says Devendra Naik. Through his lens, he seeks to portray the unseen struggles, quiet sacrifices, and heartfelt moments of a mother’s journey.

 

This show is curated by Trupti Naik.

 

What You will Experience:

 

This exhibition takes you on an emotional journey through themes like:

·         A mother’s relentless pursuit to shape her child’s dreams.

·         Her tireless efforts to balance work and family.

·         Stories of motherhood in tribal traditions.

·         The legacy of nurturing passed down through grandparents.

·         Motherly love in Mother Nature, a nurturing force we often take for granted.

 

Nature as the Universal Mother

 

We call her Mother Nature because, like a mother, she gives selflessly - providing us with life-sustaining resources, shelter, and beauty. She mirrors a mother’s care, strength, and sacrifices. Yet, as humanity prospers, we often neglect and exploit her generosity.

 

This exhibition sheds light on this delicate relationship, urging viewers to reflect on the ways we can honor and protect the planet we call home. The theme reminds us that nurturing our natural world is as crucial as cherishing the mothers who raise us.

 

An Invitation to Feel and Reflect

 

"Motherhood is not just a relationship; it’s a constant presence guiding us through life’s every phase," says Devendra. This exhibition invites you to reflect on the true meaning of a mother’s love—be it from the one who gave us life or from the Earth that sustains us.

From: 25^th to 31^st December 2024

"Mother's Embrace" - the timeless bond of love

A Photography Exhibition by Renowned Photographer Devendra Naik

 

VENUE:

Jehangir Art Gallery

Terrace Gallery

M.G. Road, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai 400 001

Timing: 11am to 7pm

Contact: +91 9833113555, +91 9920430607 

“If you want the truth, I will tell you the truth. Listen to the secret sound, the real sound which is inside you.”-Saint Kabir

Artist: Jayesh Shukla

Jayesh Shukla’s simple and unpretentious expressions in his drawings and paintings made with ink, pen and watercolours on paper, rely on minimalism and lucidity to convey sentiments, concepts, or narratives without overwhelming details. Just like Kabir’s humble couplets, here too the emphasis is on the essence rather than elaboration, creating an impactful visual experience. Each stroke, encumbered with muted colours and restrained palette, or even fine lines, is deliberate, conveying emotion, drive, mood and harmony. Uncluttered arrangements highlight the subject, making the message apt and clear. The whole composition reflects symbolic imagery embedded with deeper meanings, letting spectator find one’s own meanings and interpretations. The subtle minutiae of gestures or an object adds to the appeal, allowing connecting with the painting’s core essence.

A 15^th century mystic poet, Kabir has used numerous metaphors in his doha or couplets to deliver reflective spiritual actualities. With variety of elements, he exemplifies the interconnectedness of life, the transient nature of existence, and the path to divine consciousness. He parallels the soul to a raindrop merging with the ocean, embodying the union of the individual self with the divine; and lotus and mud to represent spiritual purity arising amidst worldly chaos. The river’s journey toward the sea reflects the soul’s quest for liberation; the fragility of life through metaphors like a flame extinguished by the wind. The quintessence of these allegories is his transcendental teachings in ordinary practices, making them reachable and eternal. Through his straightforward expression, Jayesh enthuses Kabir’s profound understanding of life’s essence and spiritual realisation. His distorted human drawings encounter traditional acuities of form and proportion, arresting raw sensation or intangible conceptions. Exaggerated features, with popping out or drowsy eyes, twisted limbs, or elongated arms, flying beard and titled heads, all conjure feelings of quest, uneasiness, inquisitiveness, or intrigue. These artworks may imply inner chaos, societal evaluation, and the complexity of human identity.

 

Simplicity is a stamp of Kabir’s doha, and efforts can be seen by Jayesh in reflecting his deep insight, belief in a direct and unembellished approach to mysticism and life through his minimal approach here. A single human form carrying one symbol makes one think of the original doha and connect to the concept. He advocates for humbleness, gratification, and detachment from superfluous and materialistic world, rejecting elaborate rituals and dogmas. At one place the artist has painted Kabir holding a rosary and immediately "Mala to kar mein phire, jeebh phir mukh maahi, Manua to chahu dis phire, yeh to sumiran naahi" comes to mind reminding one to focus the mind on the divine, not randomly follow the outward act of turning beads.

Symbolism is governing factor in Kabir’s doha, as he uses vivid, everyday images as similes to carry thoughtful spiritual and philosophical ideas. These ciphers in poetic simplicity bridge the tangible and the abstract, making his ideologies relatable and relevant. Kabir, a weaver by profession, uses the loom as a symbol of life, where each thread represents actions and destiny woven by the divine. Along with these storylines of rain, cloud, moon and ocean symbolizing the soul’s longing to merge with the divine, shedding individuality Jayesh has also drawn a portrait enclosed by nature and holding a flower which reveals that everything unfolds at its own pace, one may water the plant endlessly, but the fruit is only borne in its season- “Dheere dheere re mana, dheere sab kuch hoye, maali seeche so ghara, rutt aye phal hoye.”

Among many animals and insects suggesting human traits, spiritual lessons, and philosophical truths, which Kabir has quoted, the scorpion has been picked up as an element in drawing by Jayesh Shukla, showing it as a symbol of agony, unawareness, or detrimental propensities. It often represents the self-inflicted suffering caused by ego, attachment, or bad deeds. The sting of the scorpion serves as a reminder of the consequences of one’s actions and the need for self-awareness. Rain in his artworks denotes grace, blessings, and the divine’s nurturing existence. Crows in Jayesh’s art epitomize Kabir’s criticism of human tendencies to focus on external appearances, superficialities or trivialities, much like a crow scavenging for scraps, neglecting deeper truths. “Kaga sab tan khaiyo, mera chun chun khaiyo maas, Do naina mat khaiyo, mohe piya milan ki aas" echoes deep spiritual yearning of uniting with the Almighty.

Kabir’s preaching often employs vivid and relatable imagery, including roots, bubbles, and goats, to convey profound metaphysical notions. Roots and branches which indicate the foundation of life and spirituality can be seen in drawings by the artist. Though it is a direct depiction, yet enwraps Kabir’s deep concept of nurturing strong, spiritual ‘roots’ by focusing on inner growth and detachment from worldly distractions. Playing with bubbles signify the fleeting and fragile nature of life, underlining impermanence and the transient nature of worldly life. The kite (patang) has been painted as a metaphor for human ambition, desires, and the consequences of being controlled by ego or attachments; soaring high but hitched to a thread to demonstrate the illusion of freedom, drifting high with pride or desires until it smashes when the cord breaks. One can even musical instruments like bells and sitar and even toys like top rotating over the hand and paper boats.

Story written by

 Alka Chadha Harpalani

The solo show of series inspired by values of Kabir, of more than sixty paintings by Jayesh Shukla, sponsored by Gujrat State Lalitkala Academy, Ahmedabad, will be exhibited from 17^th December to 21^st December 2024 at Nippon Art Gallery, Mumbai.