Bapu in a multitude of colours

As part of the 150th birth centenary celebrations of Gandhiji, an exhibition titled Rangoli – showcasing Bapu in a multitude of colours – was inaugurated, recently, at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. The exhibition is open till October 8, 2019.

This week-long exhibition has been organised by IGNCA in association with S B Pola, eminent Rangoli artist from a remote village bordering Goa, along with his well trained students. Twenty-five paintings in a combination of colours, chosen from incidents related to Gandhiji's life, have been created on-the-spot in just about two days. Their rendering on the floor, similar to a photograph is unbelievably realistic.

In contrast to this showcase, the other Twin Art gallery has in it an exhibition by craftsmen from across India paying tribute to the Mahatma through their simple indigenous handcrafted artworks.

Titled ‘Mahatma of Craftsmen,' organised by Dastakari Haat Samiti, it is versatile in the depictions of Bapu, representing him in their humbling craft techniques. It is part of the ongoing Craft Bazar in the Matighar lawns, a collaborative effort between IGNCA and Dastkari Haat Samiti.

Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA inaugurated these exhibitions. Emphasising the importance of this initiative, he stated, “Today we are inaugurating two different events at IGNCA, on one hand we are exhibiting Rangoli paintings related to different aspects of Gandhiji's life and on the other Jayaji has tried to bring out the hidden talents of craftsmen from different parts of the country and has provided them a platform to exhibit their abilities''.

Besides the Crafts Bazar, one can also witness live music by folk artist from Kuchch in Gujarat. Treat of local street food compliments the experience of this fair.