In a vibrant celebration of India’s rich cultural heritage, a distinguished group of traditional artists today called on the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, as part of the ongoing Artists-in-Residence programme at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This unique initiative, aptly named Kala Utsav, is dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s diverse folk, tribal, and traditional art forms in their authentic and original styles.
The Artists-in-Residence programme serves as a prestigious platform, providing recognition and encouragement to artists who have tirelessly nurtured and sustained their indigenous art traditions over generations. These artists not only embody India’s artistic legacy but also inspire new generations to appreciate and continue these cultural practices.
Among the celebrated participants are the revered Gond artists from Madhya Pradesh and the iconic Madhubani painters from Bihar, who have been residing at Rashtrapati Bhavan since May 20, 2025. Their presence in the presidential residence symbolizes the country’s commitment to honoring its creative custodians and bringing traditional art forms into the national spotlight.
The Madhubani artists attending the residency include Shanti Devi, Ambika Devi, Manisha Jha, Priti Karn, Ranjan Paswan, Urmila Devi, Shravan Paswan, Kumari Nalinee Shah, and Moti Karn — each renowned for their intricate brushwork, vibrant colors, and deep cultural symbolism that Madhubani art represents. Alongside them, the Gond art stalwarts — Durgabai Vyam, Subhash Vyam, Nankusia Shyam, Ram Singh Urveti, Dilip Shyam, Champakali, Heeraman Urvety, and Japani Shyam Dhurwey — are showcasing the mesmerizing tribal narratives and motifs that characterize Gond painting, celebrated for its naturalistic style and connection to the forests and folklore of Madhya Pradesh.
During the visit, the President personally viewed the exquisite paintings created by the artists during their residency, witnessing firsthand the dedication, skill, and passion that go into each piece. Smt. Murmu expressed her admiration for the artists’ invaluable contribution in preserving India’s intangible cultural heritage. She praised their role in keeping alive the myriad traditional art forms that are not only aesthetic treasures but also vital expressions of the country’s diverse identities and histories.
Addressing the artists, the President conveyed her best wishes for their continued success and encouraged them to remain steadfast in their artistic endeavors, emphasizing the importance of such cultural initiatives in fostering national pride and global appreciation for India’s traditional arts.
The Kala Utsav Artists-in-Residence programme will continue until May 27, 2025, offering the public a rare opportunity to experience and engage with these traditional art forms at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This initiative is an exemplary step in celebrating India’s artistic diversity while providing folk and tribal artists with a dignified platform to gain national recognition and reach wider audiences.
In a world increasingly dominated by modernization and technology, such programmes underscore the timeless relevance and enduring beauty of India’s traditional arts, reminding all of the deep roots and vibrant legacy that continue to shape the cultural fabric of the nation.
