New Delhi: In a major cultural push aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) unveiled an ambitious plan to promote art, heritage, and cultural vibrancy across the capital.
The announcement was made by NDMC Vice Chairman Shri Kuljeet Singh Chahal during a press conference held at Palika Kendra, where he detailed a multi-faceted cultural roadmap under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
This extensive initiative aims to establish New Delhi as a thriving center of creativity and cultural expression. Shri Chahal emphasized that the plan will celebrate India’s artistic richness, foster public engagement, and drive creative innovation across the city’s public spaces.
Art District to House Landmark Sculptures
A highlight of the new cultural policy is the creation of a dedicated Art District in the heart of the capital. NDMC has invited ten of India’s most prominent sculptors—eight of whom have already confirmed participation—to create monumental artworks ranging from 10 to 15 feet in height.
These sculptures will be strategically placed at iconic cultural venues such as Mandi House, National School of Drama, India Gate-NGMA, FICCI Auditorium, Shri Ram Centre, Hyderabad House, Travancore Bhawan, and Triveni Kala Sangam.
Participating artists include celebrated names like Raghav R. Kaneria, Ved Nair, Padma Shri Biman B. Das, Padma Shri Rajendra Tikku, K. Radhakrishnan, Arun Pandit, and tributes to the artistic legacy of the late Satish Gujral and Nagji Patel.
To maintain high standards and contextual relevance, a Selection and Advisory Committee will be constituted under the convenorship of NDMC’s Consultant (Art & Culture), comprising national and international art experts. This committee will guide the selection of artworks, artists, materials, and installation locations.
International and National Art Symposia Announced
Shri Chahal also announced two major creative platforms: an International Sculpture Symposium and a National Painting Symposium. The sculpture symposium will bring together 15 acclaimed sculptors, including 10 Indian and 5 international artists—many of whom are recipients of Padma and national awards. These artists will create sculptures live during a collaborative workshop in Delhi.
Simultaneously, 15 leading painters from across the country will take part in the National Painting Symposium. They will work in a residency format, producing artworks that will later be showcased in curated exhibitions and displayed at key NDMC sites, enhancing public spaces with vibrant visual narratives.
Year-Round Cultural Calendar and Urban Arts Forum
To provide structure and continuity, NDMC has formed an Urban Arts and Culture Forum via Council Resolution. This body will oversee an Annual Cultural Calendar, curating a year-long lineup of cultural festivals and public art events celebrating India’s folk and classical traditions.
Key upcoming events include Kartik Nartya Mahotsav, Bhakti Naad, Classical Music Festivals, Art Flea Markets, and innovative concepts such as Sound Garden, Women, Dreams and Desires, Waste to Value (Recycling Art), Puppet Shows, Cinema in the Park, and large-scale Public Art Installations. These will be hosted at Nehru Park, Central Park, Lodhi Art District, Talkatora Stadium, and Khan Market.
Execution Committee and Sustainable Design
To ensure timely delivery and accountability, an Execution and Advisory Committee will be formed, headed by the Consultant (Art & Culture) and including NDMC’s Director (Finance). This committee will manage budgeting, site finalization, compliance procedures, and agency coordination.
The sculptures will be crafted from long-lasting materials such as bronze, steel, and stone, chosen for their durability and low maintenance. Shri Chahal stated that the project has been envisioned with a 100-year perspective to serve future generations.
Making Art Accessible to All
A major objective of the initiative is to bring art to the public domain. Shri Chahal stressed that art should not remain confined to galleries or exclusive spaces. Instead, it should be accessible to citizens from all walks of life. The public art installations will allow people—especially youth and students—to engage with art in everyday spaces, fostering awareness and cultural pride.
Reviving Srijan Gallery and Supporting Artists
To further support artists, NDMC will reopen the Srijan Art Gallery at Nehru Park and will allocate affordable spaces in Khan Market where artists can exhibit and sell their creations.
This will provide emerging and established artists with valuable platforms to connect with audiences and patrons. The first exhibitions under this initiative are set to begin in July 2025.
Shri Chahal said, “Desh ka dil Dilli hai, aur Dilli ka dil New Delhi hai. NDMC will make this heart beat with art, culture, and heritage.” This sweeping initiative is expected to not only revitalize Delhi’s cultural landscape but also boost cultural tourism and contribute significantly to the creative economy envisioned for a developed India by 2047.
