Revitalising India's Heritage: Exhibition Showcases 100+ Masterpieces By Over 70 Award-Winning Artists

New Delhi, Aug 30, 2024: In a bid to preserve, sustain, and revitalize India's heritage art forms, an exhibition featuring over 100 masterpieces created by more than 70 award-winning artisans from 17 states was held in the national capital.

Titled NAAYAAB, the exhibition was a joint initiative of Craft Maestro & M3M Foundation. Dr Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee M3M Foundation, supported the initiative as its Art Promotion Partner.

The two-day event, which concluded on Aug 26, showcased over 100 masterpieces by more than 70 artisans across 17 states who have received the highest national honours, including Padma Vibhushan, Padma Shri, Shilp Guru, and National Awards. Representing over 40 crafts from 17 states, NAAYAAB brought together the finest works of these celebrated artisans in a collective effort to celebrate and safeguard the nation’s rich cultural legacy.

Among the masterpieces on exhibit was a priceless 7 kg ruby stone, meticulously chiselled to perfection over the last two-and-a-half years.

Sharing her insights after the event, Kanodia said, "Naayaab is not just a celebration of art, it is a call to action for the passionate patrons of the new age to become custodians of India’s rich cultural heritage. In a world that is constantly moving forward, it is crucial to pause and honour the traditions that have shaped our cultural identity. Naayaab is not just an event, it is much more than that. Naayaab is a national movement conceptualised & curated by Craft Maestro to bring our master craftsmen the recognition and support they deserve. By connecting them with patrons who value their art, we have aimed to ensure that these crafts not only survive but thrive in the modern world. This initiative is our commitment to preserving the legacy of Indian handicrafts for our future generations."

Naayaab was conceptualized to showcase solidarity in line with the ruling central government’s vision towards reviving Indian artisanal treasures and to create sustainable economic opportunities for artisans.

The event held at Hotel Taj Man Singh attracted a discerning audience of high-net-worth individuals, art aficionados, and cultural enthusiasts. The event curated a special session for the Delhi Chapter of the Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO) on August 26, which featured a private guided walkthrough the various priceless exhibits along with key dignitaries and ambassadors from Algeria, Russia and Israel. 

Dr Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture and Tourism, was the Chief Guest.

NAAYAAB is happening next in Hyderabad on September 4 and 5 September, and in Mumbai on September 13 and 14.