KOCHI: Since its very first edition in 2012, BMW has been the official partner of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB). For the sixth Kochi-Muziris Biennale, the Kochi Biennale Foundation is curated by Nikhil Chopra with HH Art Spaces featuring 66 artist projects from more than 25 countries. The biennale opened to the public on 12 December 2025 and will last for a period of four months.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President & CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The BMW Group India is proud to continue its partnership with the sixth edition of Kochi-Muziris Biennale, a platform that celebrates creativity, dialogue, and new perspectives. Art has the power to inspire progressive thinking, and this partnership reflects our belief in innovation that moves both people and culture forward. The Biennale’s spirit of openness and exploration mirrors BMW’s philosophy of redefining possibility, and we are delighted to be a part of a movement that enriches India’s cultural landscape.”

The exhibition, the largest contemporary art biennale in South Asia and the first of its kind in India, unfolds across 29 venues in Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, Willingdon Islands, and Ernakulam. It sits in conversation with a constellation of exhibitions, performances, and discursive programmes which are set in close dialogue with Kochi’s unique geographical, social, and cultural ecology.

Embracing process as methodology, this edition places ‘friendship economies’ as the very scaffolding of the exhibition. The curatorial vision acknowledges bodies as a landscape of time, a vessel of labour, joy, and loss, and invites the visitors to think through ‘embodied histories of those that came before us and continue to live within us in the form of cells, stories, and techniques.

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The exhibition will showcase around 50 paintings based on the theme of Nature. Through his watercolour paintings, Anil Nene expresses the beauty, calmness, and harmony of nature uniquely and refreshingly.

Art lovers and the general public are invited to visit and enjoy this beautiful collection of artworks.

Venue: PNG Art Gallery, Near Reliance Mart, Aundh

Dates: 18th to 23rd November 2025

Time: 11.00 AM to 8.00 PM

Entry: Free

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“Over the last many years, as I was painting light from nature, the light from my daily work of surgeries enthralled me more and more. Without a doubt, this process has enriched my journey of skull base tumours, Microvascular decompression, Aneurysms, and intraventricular tumour work.” Dr Panchwagh said.

Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh, who is a Consultant Neurosurgeon at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Deccan Gymkhana, Pune, began his artistic journey five years ago. What started as a personal passion has now blossomed into a stunning collection of over 60 paintings that were recently displayed at an international Neurosurgery conference in Mumbai. His work was also exhibited in Germany in the month of September, where it gained significant recognition, and the paintings were sold to raise funds for patients suffering from Trigeminal Neuralgia and Hemifacial Spasms. His art combines the scientific precision of his Neurosurgical skills with the creative expression of his artistic journey. Inspired by the brain’s intricate architecture observed during surgeries, his artwork offers a new perspective on the beauty and complexity of the human mind.

Dr. Panchwagh’s paintings have garnered attention from both the medical and artistic communities. His recent painting, called “Firing Lines,” has recently generated a lot of interest across the world. This painting was based on a surgical microscopic photograph of an Arteriovenous Malformation of the spinal cord. The photo was from a surgery performed by Dr. Michael Lawton, President and CEO of the Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona. Dr Lawton is one of the top Neurosurgeons in the world and is also known for his involvement with Elon Musk’s Neuralink. So this difficult surgery performed by Dr. Lawton served as the basis for this work. The painting known as the “Firing Lines” focuses not only on the complexities of spinal cord arteriovenous malformations but also brings out the aesthetic beauty of the meandering blood vessels with red, pink, crimson, and yellowish colours of fire seen under the microscope. “This was the first time I painted someone else’s surgery, and it took around 12 hours to complete. I’m honoured to have captured a procedure performed by one of the world’s leading neurosurgeons,” Dr. Panchwagh shared. This painting captures the tangled web of abnormal blood vessels in the brain, visualized in shades of red and transforming as if alive.

“My artwork aims to reveal the hidden beauty and complexity of the brain’s vital structures,” said Dr. Panchwagh. His passion for blending science and art stems from his experience as a neurosurgeon, where modern endoscopy enables him to explore the brain’s intricate architecture. He describes this as both a scientific and artistic pursuit — a unique form of art that unites aesthetics and neuroscience. What began as sketching during his research naturally evolved into painting, allowing him to capture these mesmerizing inner landscapes.

Dr. Panchwagh emphasized the importance of spreading awareness about this rare and excruciating condition that causes severe facial pain. Having treated numerous patients, he used paintings from his recent exhibition in Germany to raise funds for individuals suffering from Trigeminal Neuralgia and Hemifacial Spasms. Through his art, Dr. Panchwagh beautifully merges neurosurgery and creativity, inspiring both the medical community and the public to recognize the brain’s intricate beauty while drawing attention to critical neurological conditions.

Dr. Panchawagh added, “Paintings connect more deeply with the human subconscious than photographs, a bond that dates back to our cave-dwelling ancestors. Visual art fulfils an innate aesthetic hunger and imparts knowledge effortlessly, which is why paintings continue to thrive even in the age of high-quality photography.”

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The session is part of the Foundation Project implemented by IFA under its Archives and Museums programme with Zapurza Museum of Art and Culture, coordinated by Kohinoor Darda, cognitive neuroscientist, neuro-aesthetician, performing artist, and founder of ARISA Foundation. The project examines Pune’s artistic legacy through exhibitions, research, and public programmes.

Highlights from the discussion

“Artists often work in pockets, but to bring them together and create synergy, we need spaces like this museum,” observed Shilpa Joglekar, highlighting the importance of community in Pune’s art world. The discussion also situated women’s work within the broader legacy of the city — while Pune has long been celebrated for its contributions to literary arts and theatre, the voices and practices of visual artists have remained underrepresented. This panel sought to redress that imbalance by foregrounding women’s contributions.

The panel also debated the role of social media in shaping art viewership. While acknowledging its reach, the artists cautioned against its superficiality.

 “Social media allows you to put your process out there, but it can also trivialise the artwork. Looking at art requires time, attention, and presence,” said Gayatri Tambe Deshpande.
 “Many viewers today see exhibitions as colourful backdrops for Instagram reels, without really engaging with the work,” added Vaishali Oak.

The conversation expanded to accessibility in the arts, underlining the need to take art beyond galleries.
 “The white cube can feel alienating. Bringing art into public spaces makes it accessible to everyone, creating a new visual culture,” noted Shilpa Joglekar.

The panel concluded with reflections on technology and tradition. The artists agreed that while tools like AI can support artistic processes, they cannot replace the role of the artist.
 “AI is just another medium. It can save time and offer possibilities, but art still comes from lived experience and human connection,” said Gayatri Tambe Deshpande.

The discussion took place alongside the exhibition Pune’s Artistic Legacy Part 3: Women Artists of Pune, on view at Zapurza Museum of Art and Culture until 10 September 2025. The exhibition features ceramics, textiles, paintings, illustrations, and more — led by themes of memory, nature, material, and movement — and invites audiences to read the city’s art history through women’s practices.

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The newly redesigned website provides an immersive glimpse into the life and works of R.K. Laxman, capturing the inspirations and influences that shaped him into one of India’s most iconic artists.

The Children’s Art Book, released alongside, features a collection of R.K. Laxman’s original sketches created for the children’s books authored by his wife, Kamala Laxman. Known for her engaging storytelling, Kamala wrote many beloved works for children, including the much-celebrated Tenali Raman series, which later gained national fame through its televised adaptation on Doordarshan in the early 1980s.

The event also welcomed school children from Elpro International School, who were given a chance to engage with the sketches, discover the stories behind them, and draw inspiration from the creative legacy of R.K. and Kamala Laxman.

During the event, Usha Laxman shared one of her father’s timeless reflections on nurturing creativity: 

“Children should develop their skills in art, the urge for drawing and sketching is inborn in everyone, and all that one needs to become an artist is to develop a faculty of observation.”

Speaking on the occasion, Anand Chordia said, 

“R.K. Laxman’s art is not just about humor; it is about the power of observation and the courage to tell stories that matter. By relaunching this website and unveiling the Children’s Art Book, we hope to inspire the younger generation to observe, imagine, and create fearlessly, just as R.K. Laxman did.”

The occasion brought together admirers of R.K. Laxman’s work, literature enthusiasts, and community members, celebrating not only the artistic genius of the legendary cartoonist but also the literary legacy of Kamala Laxman.

For more information and to explore R.K. Laxman’s journey, visit www.rklaxman.com.

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The lecture will take place on Saturday, August 23, at 10:00 am at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI), Law College Road.

Organizers said the initiative aims to provide deeper insights into the cultural, spiritual, and artistic significance of Ganesh idols as devotees prepare for the much-awaited festival.

Entry is free of charge, but seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Kicking off with events in Bengaluru and Goa on May 10, goREADS will feature interactive bookish hangouts where authors across genres, languages, and lived experiences vibe with readers over book talks, creative sessions, workshops, Q&As, and more, all in the social, design-first spaces – goSTOPS is renowned for. Whether you’re a city-dweller looking to meet your literary idol or a traveller craving a plot twist in your itinerary, goREADS promises an experience that’s meaningful, memorable, and creatively inspiring.

The first leg of goREADS brings two powerful voices to the fore. At its tech-powered hostel in HSR, Bengaluru, goSTOPS will host Shinie Antony, prolific author and founder of the Bangalore Literature Festival, for a freewheeling discussion about her books — including Can’t, Eden Abandoned and Hell Hath No Fury — and her experience curating one of the country’s most respected literary events. This scintillating and insightful session will be moderated by esteemed journalist and literature enthusiast Monika Monalisa.

Meanwhile, in Goa, writer Michelle Mendonça Bambawale will take over goSTOPS Vagator with a discussion on her book Becoming Goan, with renowned journalist Sneha Vakharia. This will be followed by a candid Q&A session. Her talk will delve into the deeply personal journey of moving to Goa during the COVID-19 pandemic, rediscovering her ancestry, and finding her place in a city that often plays muse to many.

Sharing her thoughts on the launch of this new literary IP, Pallavi Agarwal, Founder & CEO at goSTOPS, said, “At goSTOPS, we’ve always believed that travel is much more than just ticking off destinations. It’s about discovery, connection, and stories you carry home with you. With goREADS, we’re doubling down on our mission to make travel meaningful. We are creating spaces where backpackers and bibliophiles come together, and where ideas, like memories, are shared long after checkout. This is the kind of community-driven experience that we believe the young traveller is hungry for — something real and refreshingly different.”

Shinie Antony, author and founder of, Bangalore Literature Festival, noted, “Stories are a form of travel, taking our soul from point A to point B. The journey may be emotional, intellectual, or physical, but ultimately all travel is spiritual.”

Michelle Mendonça Bambawale, author, added, “Travel is a transformative experience, and for me, moving to Goa amidst the pandemic was one such event. Through the inaugural goREADS event, I hope to inspire young travellers to read more, write, and document their journeys as they explore new destinations, since good storytelling can only happen when there’s a personal touch to stories.”

goREADS is designed to evolve as a series of year-round literary events that champion diverse voices and encourage authentic expression, be it through spontaneous readings, creative workshops, or literary collabs. By tapping into the storytelling power of literature, goSTOPS is building yet another touchpoint for travellers and communities to engage beyond the usual. It’s what the brand has always done best — turn hostels into hubs for community spirit, creativity, and discovery. 

Because at goSTOPS, every stay has a story, and now, with goREADS, you can hear it read aloud.

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AN ODE TO THE FRENCH ART DE VIVRE

Inspired by the art de vivre à la française, these workshops immerse participants in the heart of Parisian gastronomic culture. With a hybrid format combining a hands-on cooking class and an outdoor excursion just a few steps away, One Day in Paris showcases the richness of local craftsmanship and the exceptional savoir-faire of the Chefs at École Ducasse Paris Studio. Over a single day, participants are guided by expert teams who share their passion for quality ingredients and teach the refined techniques inspired by Chef Alain Ducasse.

The program includes a full day of immersion at École Ducasse Paris Studio and across the charming 16th arrondissement neighborhood of Boulainvilliers, featuring:

• A warm welcome with a gourmet breakfast
• A guided visit to the Passy and Annonciation market with a Chef from École Ducasse Paris Studio, offering encounters with local artisans and producers (including a baker committed to crafting his sourdough bread)
• An exclusive cooking workshop at École Ducasse Paris Studio using fresh market ingredients
• A tasting lunch of the dishes prepared during the session
• A chocolate and coffee tasting featuring selections from Alain Ducasse’s own Manufactures

Offered in English (also available in French), this workshop is designed especially for visitors to Paris who wish to explore the culinary arts and experience the essence of the French art de vivre.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Individual rate: €369
• Limited spots available; dates can be viewed on the website www.paris-ecoleducasse-studio.com or upon request for private bookings.
• Registrations are open via email at accueil@ecoleducasse.com, through the website www.paris-ecoleducasse-studio.com, or by phone at +33 (0)1 44 90 91 00
• École Ducasse Paris Studio 64 rue du Ranelagh 75016 Paris

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The Para Guernica program, organized by Pune Gallery of Visual Arts (PGVA) under the Maharashtra Cultural Centre, aims to give voice to the anguish of these victims through a powerful art performance. The event will take place on April 27th at Jyotsna Bhole Auditorium, Hirabaug Chowk- Tilak Road, with two shows: 9:00-10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. Both shows are free and open to all on a first-come, first-served basis.

Pramod Kale said, “General Franco, a proponent of dictatorship in Spain, collaborated with the Nazi’s to assert his dominance. The bombing of Guernica on April 26, 1937, resulted in massive destruction and loss of innocent lives. Pablo Picasso’s iconic painting ‘Guernica’ immortalized this tragic event. The concept of ‘Para Guernica’ draws inspiration from the word ‘Para,’ meaning ‘stop,’ urging us to halt such atrocities.”

Through ‘Para Guernica,’ we seek to inspire collective action against the suffering inflicted by social divisions. The program will feature a multimedia presentation, including photographic projections and poetry recitations, designed to engage the audience both visually and aurally, fostering a deeper connection to the cause, Kale added

Pramod Kale will participate in the program, alongside acclaimed actress Vibhavari Deshpande and Naresh Gund, who will recite poems. This event marks the first of its kind show in Pune, made even more special with the permission of celebrated poet Ganesh Vispute to feature his translated works.

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NCPA@thePark – This initiative aims to make performing arts accessible to the public by delivering a unique and engaging experience featuring various live performances, ranging from dance and international music to Western classical music, Indian music, and theatre, entirely free of cost.

The program will commence at 6:30 PM with the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI). Based at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Mumbai, the SOI is India’s first and only professional orchestra. Founded in 2006 by NCPA Chairman Khushroo N. Suntook and internationally renowned violin virtuoso Marat Bisengaliev, who serves as the Orchestra’s Music Director, the SOI has established itself as a premier musical ensemble. Following successful editions in Mumbai, NCPA@thePark is now making its debut in Pune.

Members of the Symphony Orchestra of India present an evening of timeless beauty and profound emotion, featuring a curated selection of iconic compositions by renowned composers. Experience the elegance and power of orchestral works, soulful melodies, and virtuosic solos as you journey through the rich traditions of classical music to modern works. Perfect for music lovers and those seeking a refined cultural experience, this concert promises to leave you inspired and deeply moved.

Indian classical dance draws inspiration from temples and gods. Although the compositions eulogize various gods with their stories, they also explore human emotions. The relationship between Paramatma (the Supreme Soul) and Jeevathma (the Individual Soul) comes into harmony in this dance presentation, ‘Nrutyollasa’, by Praveen Kumar and his team. This program will start around 7.40 PM.

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