Dakhin | Dilli – A Sacred Dialogue

FICCI FLO, under the leadership of the 43rd National President, Ms. Puja Garg, organised an exclusive art walkthrough for FLO members for Dakhin Dilli: A Sacred Dialogue exhibition, which brought together devotional traditions from both North and South India. Presented by Raseel Gujral Art Legacy, the exhibition was hosted at Arzaani Atelier, Bikaner House, exploring how sacred ideas, artistic forms, and devotional practices travelled across Dakhin and Dilli through pilgrimage routes, temple cultures, and patronage networks. 

Led by interior designer Raseel Gujral Ansal, the walkthrough started with a dialogue centered on India’s rich devotional visual culture. Also, it featured Shreyasi Gopinath, a Bharatanatyam dancer, who created an immersive and engaging experience for FLO members. Through her distinctive visual vocabulary, she interpreted the beautiful artworks using expressive dance and storytelling, offering nuanced insights into the themes and details of the devotional paintings, temple icons, and ritual objects. 

Also, this art walkthrough marked the beginning of the FLO National Visual Arts initiative. During their addresses, Initiative Head, Kuwarani Ritu Singh, and Co-Lead Sonia Singla urged FLO members to engage with India’s rich artistic traditions and build a community of storytellers and custodians of culture. 

Key Highlights of the Event

  • FLO Delhi members, Governing Body Members, and National President, Ms. Puja Garg, attended the art walkthrough and witnessed a meaningful cultural dialogue led by Raseel Gujral Ansal. 
  • The exhibition featured South Indian traditions such as Tanjore and Mysore paintings, where deities are depicted as radiant, gold-adorned icons.
  • Featured North Indian devotional art, particularly Pichwai paintings, illustrating Krishna’s life through vibrant natural motifs like cows and lotuses.
  • Included ritual objects, sculptures, and sacred mounts, reflecting devotion as a lived and practiced experience.
  • Featured a notable 19th-century wooden sculpture of Annapakshi Vahanam, highlighting South Indian temple traditions. 

Impact & Outcome

Around 62 attendees participated in this exclusive art walkthrough. Dakhin Dilli- A Sacred Dialogue provides a deeper understanding of India’s devotional art traditions and their continued relevance in contemporary contexts.

The exhibition reinforced the idea that devotion remains central to India’s artistic identity, while also encouraging younger audiences to engage with and preserve these rich cultural traditions. Visual Arts Initiative under FICCI FLO will continue fostering engagement of members with India’s rich artistic heritage.