Art traditions find dynamic platform in Indian Folk Art Corridor exhibition

Indian Folk Art Corridor, the arts body that strives to bring lesser-known Indian art forms into the limelight through workshops and exhibitions under the leadership of artist and curator Vidisha Pandey recently presented Swadesh, a celebration of India’s folk and tribal art traditions (Oct. 12). The event was a vibrant reflection of India’s cultural depth, uniting heritage, artistry and nostalgic emotion, on one platform. (“Swadesh” in Hindi means “one’s own country”, “homeland” or “motherland”). “Swadesh is not merely an exhibition: it is an experience that brings the essence of India alive through colours, textures, and stories embedded in its art,” said Vidisha Pandey. “Its stunning display of traditional paintings, intricate crafts, and live art demonstrations successfully bridges the gap between age-old traditions and contemporary appreciation.”

The exhibition was inaugurated by Bijender Singh, Head of Chancery & Consul (Protocol, Welfare, RTI & Culture) at the Consulate General of India, Dubai. His presence added heft to the growing recognition and appreciation of Indian folk and tribal art on international platforms. The evening was also graced by the presence of special guest, Indian film actress Kalpana Iyer.

Her participation symbolised the union of art, culture, and cinema. Swadesh presented a vibrant canvas of India’s cultural diversity. From the delicate intricacies of Madhubani and Pichwai to the soulful simplicity of Warli, the earthy narratives of Gond, the vibrant motifs of Sohrai and the storytelling brilliance of Tholu Bommalata, each art form carried the timeless essence of artistic devotion, proud identity, and irrepressible traditions.

Artists and art supporters face the camera.

Visitors were transported through the corridors of India’s rich heritage as each artwork whispered stories of ancestral wisdom and indigenous craftsmanship. The event hailed the artisans who, through their hands and hearts, continue to keep India’s folk legacy alive. The importance of the event was further enhanced by the presence of distinguished personalities, including veteran artist Anjini Prakash Laitu, renowned water colourist Atul Panase, art supporters Sultana Kazim and Kusum Dutta, art mentor and teacher Sugat Priyadarshi, entrepreneur and philanthropist Laila Rahhall and internationally acclaimed award-winning artist and arts advocate Nada Al Barazi, each adding their energy and support to the event. Their encouragement and appreciation highlighted how Indian folk art resonates universally, crossing boundaries of geography and language.

In addition to the art exhibition, Swadesh also offered live workshops and interactive sessions, where visitors could witness the artists’ creative process up close. The hands-on experience allowed guests to learn about the symbolism and spiritual connections that are a feature of India’s folk traditions. Children and families, who formed a large part of the participants and audience, took part with enthusiasm, making the show not merely an exhibition, but an engaging journey of learning and discovery. The event received sincere appreciation for its authentic representation of India’s folk traditions and its ability to connect with people of all backgrounds.

Through Swadesh, the Indian Folk Art Corridor succeeded in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and inspiring a global audience to value traditional arts as a living expression of human creativity. Vidisha Pandey, who is not only the Founder of Indian Folk Art Corridor but also of Vidisha’s Creations which promotes and preserves Indian folk and tribal art on a global stage, underlined the significance of the event. “Swadesh is not just an art event,” she said. “it is an emotion that connects us to our roots. My vision is to take Indian folk and tribal art to every corner of the world.”

Her journey as an artist includes collaborations with The Nehru Centre, London and IIT Mumbai, besides other renowned institutions. She believes that art is not only a medium of expression, but also a powerful bridge that connects generations and cultures. The success of Swadesh was made possible by a team of talented artists who share Vidisha’s mission. Together, they presented a colourful mosaic of India’s many states and traditions through artworks.

Bijender Singh (left) with Vidisha Pandey at the event.

Participating artists included Pari Sagar, Shoma Banerjee, Chandralekha Dubey, Deepti Tripathi, Neema Rajesh, Sandhya Iyer, Vasanthi Kannan, Minakshi Karn, Radha Bhatia, Pratibha Sabria, Renuka Bharti, Vidya Ayyaswamy, Fatima Khan, Neha Agrawal, Tanu Sanchiti, Ankita Singhani, Sonali Pathi, Sharvari Kulkarni, Sugandha Santosh, Jigna Parekh, Poonam Chaturvedi, Varsha Khatri, Subbalakshmi Natarajan, Arya Devkumar, Deepa Bhargava, Shilpa Gupta, Vinita Pandey, Mudita Rastogi, Dhruti Shah, Ruchita Shah, Minakshi Pattnaik and Suman Mehta.

A notable aspect of Swadesh was the inclusion of children of determination, who displayed their handmade artworks with immense pride. Their creations were a powerful reminder that art knows no boundaries of ability, age, or background. Their participation added depth and sentiment to the event, reinforcing the idea that creativity belongs to everyone. Among the many inspiring moments of Swadesh, a particularly touching highlight was the participation of the mother-daughter duo, Ruchita and Dhruti Shah. What began as a daughter’s love for art, soon evolved into a shared journey of creativity and connection. Their bond through art was a symbol of how traditional values and artistic passion can unite generations, carrying India’s heritage forward in dynamic ways.

With initiatives like Swadesh, Vidisha Pandey and the Indian Folk Art Corridor continue their mission to preserve, promote, and globalise India’s folk and tribal arts. Their work ensures that these ancient art forms born from the soil of rural India, continue to find a place in the hearts of people worldwide. The Corridor is a cultural bridge, empowering artisans, inspiring youth and spreading awareness about the beauty and depth of India’s artistic heritage.