Padma Shri Biman Bihari Das Honours Dr Sandeep Marwah at - Delhi - Delhi ID1670665

New Delhi: A grand National Group Show titled “The Painted Prayer,” featuring the works of 40 distinguished artists from across India, was inaugurated at Lokayata Art Gallery. The exhibition was curated by renowned art curator Virendra Kumar and brought together a diverse range of artistic expressions inspired by spirituality, prayer, faith, and human emotions.

On the occasion, Padma Shri Biman Bihari Das, President, AIFACS, presented a token of appreciation to Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT School of Fine Arts and Marwah Studios Art Gallery, in recognition of his contribution to the promotion and development of art, culture, and creative education.

The distinguished gathering included Bhupinder S. Nanda, Senior Vice Chairman, Indian Academy of Fine Arts, Amritsar, and Shri Vijay Pal, Founder & Editor, Canvas Art Newspaper, along with artists, art lovers, curators, and members of the creative community.

Speaking at the inauguration, Padma Shri Biman Bihari Das said, “Art is a powerful expression of the human soul. ‘The Painted Prayer’ brings together artists who have transformed their thoughts, emotions, and spiritual experiences into visual expressions. It is wonderful to see so many artists coming together on one platform to celebrate creativity and the deeper dimensions of life. Dr. Sandeep Marwah has made a significant contribution to art education and has continuously encouraged young and established artists through his institutions and galleries.”

He further appreciated the efforts of curator Virendra Kumar for bringing together 40 artists and creating a meaningful platform for artistic dialogue and cultural exchange.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “Prayer is a universal language that connects humanity beyond boundaries of religion, region, language, and culture. When prayer becomes art, it takes the form of colours, lines, shapes, textures, and emotions. ‘The Painted Prayer’ beautifully demonstrates how artists can transform their inner thoughts and spiritual experiences into powerful visual narratives.”

Dr. Marwah added, “India has been the land of art, culture, spirituality, and creative expression for thousands of years. Our artists are not only creators but also custodians of our cultural heritage. It is our collective responsibility to provide them platforms, encourage experimentation, and take Indian art to audiences across the world.”

He expressed his gratitude to Padma Shri Biman Bihari Das for the gesture of appreciation and congratulated all 40 participating artists and curator Virendra Kumar for presenting an exhibition that celebrates the connection between art, spirituality, creativity, and human consciousness.

The exhibition at Lokayata Art Gallery offered art enthusiasts an opportunity to experience varied interpretations of prayer through contemporary and traditional artistic expressions, reaffirming the role of art as a medium of peace, harmony, spirituality, and universal human connection.