Rajeshwari Kala Sangam & Dr Stya Paul Art Gallery host historic art showcase in Jalandhar

Jalandhar witnessed a historic cultural milestone with the grand inauguration of the Annual Art Exhibition by Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi, hosted for the very first time in the city through the joint collaboration of Rajeshwari Kala Sangam and Dr. Stya Paul Art Gallery, Virsa Vihar.

The exhibition was graced by Mrs. Dhanpreet Kaur (IPS), Commissioner of Police, Jalandhar, as the Chief Guest. Extending a warm welcome to the distinguished guests, Dr. Sucharita Sharma, Director of Apeejay Education and Dr. Stya Paul Art Gallery, remarked, “Apeejay has always provided a creative platform for expression. Not just in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh but also at the national level, Apeejay has carved a distinct identity in the realm of fine arts.”

She fondly recalled the vision of Dr. Stya Paul, Founder Chairman of Apeejay Education, who was deeply committed to the promotion of fine arts and sought to bring them closer to society. Carrying forward his legacy,Mrs Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairman, Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, Chancellor Apeejay Stya University, and Chairman, Apeejay Education, continues to make significant contributions towards the preservation and promotion of Indian art. This exhibition, she emphasised, is a manifestation of her encouragement, vision, and inspiration.

The occasion also witnessed the gracious presence of eminent personalities including Dr. Neerja Dhingra, Principal, Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar; Mrs. Seema Chopra, Director, Punjab Kesari Ramesh Chander Memorial Trust; Mr. Bheem Malhotra, Chairman, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi; Mr. Kanwal Pal, Secretary, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi; Mrs. Reena Bhatnagar, an eminent Artist; Mr. Gurmeet Goldie, a renowned Sculptor; Mr. Madan Lal, eminent Artist ; Ms. Shilpi Arora, Office Administrator, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sucharita highlighted the rare privilege of witnessing on one platform the creativity of senior and emerging artists from the Tricity—Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula—through diverse forms such as paintings, sculptures, digital art, graphic prints, and photography. The showcased artworks not only capture the beauty of nature in its varied hues but also reflect pressing contemporary issues with artistic sensitivity.

Expressing her admiration for the exhibition, Mrs. Dhanpreet Kaur (IPS) said she was deeply moved by the creative brilliance displayed. She first congratulated the budding artists who had contributed to this exhibition and admired their work. She added we certainly look forward to more such artistic endeavors and also admired the Apeejay College for such good initiative.

Addressing the audience Mr. Bheem Malhotra, Chairman, Chandigarh Lalit Kala Akademi said that the art work exhibited here has been chosen from more than 500 entries and only the best work has become a part of this unique Exhibition. He added it is for the first time that CLKA has exhibited their work in Punjab and it has received them wholeheartedly.  He also congratulated the young budding artists and encouraged them to become part of such artistic endeavors in future as well.

Adding to the grandeur of the evening, the audience was enthralled by a Duet Classical Dance Performance by Himani and Gargi on “Araj Suno Banwari.” The performance beautifully wove together rhythm, expression, and tradition, where elegance, grace, and flawless artistic  portrayal brought the divine story of Krishna to life. The hall resonated with admiration as the performers captivated everyone with their artistry, earning a heartfelt round of applause for their spellbinding storytelling through dance.

Dr. Neerja Dhingra, in her vote of thanks, described the exhibition as a golden opportunity for the art lovers of Jalandhar to witness the treasures of the art world under one roof. She expressed her gratitude towards everyone for making this exhibition a success.

The exhibition, which commenced on 30th August 2025, will remain open to visitors till 6th September 2025, daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Dr. Sharma also appreciated the dedicated efforts of Mr. Anil Gupta and Mr. Basudev Biswas, who played a pivotal role in successfully organising the event.