• Source:JND
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The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has announced plans to transform central Delhi’s Mandi House area, home to several renowned cultural institutions, into a lively art district with a curated sculpture walk. Inspired by global art zones in the US, UK, and Japan, the project is slated for completion by the end of 2025.

List Of Areas Come Under Development 

The proposed art district will cover key cultural landmarks, including Mandi House, the National School of Drama, FICCI Auditorium, Shri Ram Centre, the India Gate-NGMA stretch, Hyderabad House, Travancore Bhawan, and Triveni Kala Sangam. These locations will feature sculptures by some of India’s most acclaimed artists.

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Reason Behind Delhi’s Mandi House Transformation 

Announcing the project, NDMC Vice Chairperson Kuljeet Singh Chahal said that the initiative is rooted in a resolution to allocate a portion of the council’s overall budget toward promoting visual and performing arts. To support this effort, a dedicated Urban Arts and Culture Forum has been established to manage an annual cultural calendar.

10 Sculptures In First Phase 

In the first phase, 10 sculptures, each ranging from 10 to 15 feet in height, will be installed across the designated sites. These works will be created by renowned Indian sculptors, including Satish Gujral, Raghav Kaneria, Padma Shri Biman Bihari Das, Padma Shri Rajendra Tikku, KS Radhakrishnan, Arun Pandit, Ved Nair, and the late Nagji Patel. Eight of these artists have already confirmed their participation.

Project head and former NGMA board member Harshvardhan Sharma said the sculptures will be crafted from stainless steel, bronze, and stone, materials chosen for their strength and long-term sustainability.

Art Calendar

A comprehensive art calendar has been prepared, including an international painting symposium in September-October with 15 Indian artists, and a national sculpture symposium in October-November featuring 10 Indian and 5 international sculptors.

The NDMC will handle logistics, accommodation, and provide materials. Selected artworks will be showcased in key government buildings, the vice chairman confirmed.

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Bhakti Sangeet Classical Music Festival

Chahal also mentioned upcoming initiatives such as a Bhakti Sangeet classical music festival, likely at Nehru Park or Central Park, along with an art flea market, ancient tree identification campaign, and week-long workshops in music and dance.