Shillong, April 15: The World Art Day Celebration 2026 was held with great enthusiasm on 15th April 2026 at Lok Bhavan, Shillong, commemorating the birth anniversary of the legendary Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci. The occasion also marked a significant cultural milestone—the commemoration of 150 years of Vande Mataram, one of India’s most revered national songs symbolizing the spirit of freedom, identity, and cultural unity.
The programme was graced by Shri Charles Pyngrope, former Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, as the Chief Guest. The event was attended by a distinguished gathering including Shri F. R. Kharkongor, Principal Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Arts and Culture Department; Shri Manaj Saha, President of the International Association of Art – India; Shri Biplap Roy, Brand Ambassador of the Association; Shri R. V. Warjri, IFS, Adviser to the Meghalaya Chapter; and Shri Raphael Warjri, State Coordinator of the Meghalaya Chapter, along with eminent artists, art connoisseurs, and cultural enthusiasts.
In his inaugural address, the Chief Guest reflected on the universal significance of art and its enduring role in shaping societies. He also highlighted the importance of Vande Mataram as a cultural and artistic expression that inspired generations during India’s freedom movement and continues to resonate as a symbol of national pride. He further described the unique artistic landscape of Meghalaya, noting that Shillong stands as a vast natural canvas of extraordinary beauty. He commended the initiative of the International Association of Art – India in organizing the celebration, emphasizing its role in fostering artistic engagement in the region.
Following the inaugural session, a memorial art exhibition was formally declared open by the Chief Guest in the presence of dignitaries and attendees. The exhibition showcased a diverse spectrum of artistic expressions, reflecting both contemporary creativity and cultural heritage.
A significant address was delivered by Shri Manaj Saha, who underscored the immense artistic potential of Meghalaya and the wider North Eastern region of India. He observed that while the artistic standards of the region are on par with national and global benchmarks, there remains a need for greater exposure, institutional support, and strategic direction. He assured that the International Association of Art – India would actively work towards promoting artists and creating platforms for wider recognition.
In his address, Shri Raphael Warjri, State Coordinator, reflected on the historical significance of Shillong as a former administrative capital during the British colonial period and a centre of socio-political development in both pre- and post-independence India. Despite this rich legacy, he expressed concern over the lack of adequate art institutions and galleries in the State. He noted that while efforts have been made over time, a sustained and structured institutional framework for the arts is yet to be realized.
The exhibition featured the participation of 40 artists, including both local practitioners and artists from across the country, making it a vibrant confluence of diverse artistic voices.
One of the highlights of the celebration was a series of engaging art talks delivered by eminent speakers. Dr. Meghali Goswami, Assistant Professor at Kala Bhavana, Visva-Bharati University, presented an insightful lecture on the history of art in Meghalaya. Digital artist Shovin Bhattacharjee shared his journey through the evolving landscape of digital art in India. Dr. Prakash Kishore spoke about his artistic migration across the country and the transformation of his creative expression before settling in Shillong. Shri Arak M. Sangma presented a compelling account of Garo folk culture and the emergence of vibrant artistic traditions across the Garo Hills.
The programme concluded with a thought-provoking address by Dr. B. D. R. Tiwari, Chief Electoral Officer of Meghalaya, who explored the philosophical essence of Indian art and its continuity through centuries of cultural evolution. He also reflected on the artistic and emotional resonance of Vande Mataram as a timeless expression of the nation’s cultural consciousness.
The World Art Day Celebration 2026 thus emerged as a significant platform for dialogue, reflection, and cultural reaffirmation—honouring global artistic heritage while simultaneously celebrating India’s own rich legacy through the commemoration of Vande Mataram. The national song was sung at the beginning and at the end of the inaugural session by the artists of eminent cultural exponent, Padmashri Silbi Passah, which arouse the spirit of allegiance to the motherland.
