The ongoing H.C. Rai Memorial ArtFest 2026 celebrates the artistic legacy of Late Shri H.C. Rai and the diverse creative journeys of women artists, bringing together different perspectives, mediums, techniques and artistic sensibilities under one roof.
The ArtFest was inaugurated by Dolly Ahluwalia, three-time National Film Award winner for costume design and recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, who initiated a collaborative artwork by placing her impression on a blank canvas. The canvas will subsequently be completed by the participating artists, symbolising the coming together of individual expressions in a shared creative space.
Following the inauguration, Ahluwalia viewed the exhibited works of Shri Rai before spending time with each of the participating artists. She closely observed their use of lines, shapes, colours, textures, forms and materials, offering personalised feedback and engaging in conversations about their creative processes. Her interaction highlighted how art can emerge from varied experiences, training, observations and individual interpretations of the world.
Speaking about her engagement with the exhibition, Ahluwalia said, “What attracts me to art is its use of colour, texture and composition. Every artwork reflects an artist’s experiences and journey. While some artists bring years of experience, I see tremendous potential in emerging artists who I believe will become big names in the near future. I take great pride in being part of a women-centric art festival that celebrates artistic expression.”
Reflecting on the relationship between artists and their work, she added that acquiring art was not merely about ownership but also about giving an artwork the respect and space it deserved. She shared that although she had particularly admired four or five works, she believed that art needed an environment in which it could be appreciated and valued.
Emphasising the importance of nurturing younger artists, Ahluwalia observed that while the older generation had laid the neev (foundation), it was the responsibility of the younger generation to build upon it. She encouraged established artists and art enthusiasts to welcome fresh ideas and perspectives rather than resist change, noting that there was much to learn from emerging creative voices.
The ArtFest celebrates the work of eight women artists — Sulakshana Arya, Tina Saxena, Veenita Dar, Sayonee Chatterjee, Somita Singh, Shivani Larzoo, Ruchika and Nandika Sharma. Their works bring together diverse artistic approaches, reflecting individual journeys, varied sensibilities and distinct ways of interpreting their surroundings. The exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to appreciate both the established artistic language of experienced practitioners and the fresh explorations of emerging talent.
The event was also visited by prominent local personalities namely Jagjit Rai Nanda and Pramila Nanda, who interacted warmly with the chief guest. Local artists, including writer Suresh Sharma and Tarun Desai, along with members of the theatre fraternity, students, professionals and tourists, visited the exhibition, adding to the exchange of ideas and appreciation of the displayed works.
The H.C. Rai Memorial ArtFest 2026 serves as a platform for celebrating artistic heritage while encouraging contemporary expression. By bringing together artists of different experiences and creative approaches, the exhibition underscores the importance of preserving artistic legacies, supporting emerging talent and recognising the many ways in which art gives form to human experience.
Sponsored
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
