A Deep Dive Into How Public Spaces Are The New Cultural Crusaders in India

Art has always been the custodian of civilisations. Society, politics and context come together to communicate unique narratives. It has always been the gateway to experiencing varied cultures, one detail at a time. 

Airports and Hotels are no longer for just spaces for transit or winding down after a long day of exploring. Over time, they have become the very place for cultural exchange and interaction, shaping travellers' first impression of a destination. Today, experiences go beyond landmark attractions.

THE TAJ MAHAL PALACE, MUMBAI

The view of the majestic Gateway of India, followed by the expanse of the Arabian sea makes Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, the perfect space to recuperate. The landmark property carries stories from more than a century. Hosting travellers from all around the world, the property promises a unique flavour of India. Hospitable interiors with a globally rooted design sensibility promise unmatched comfort. Adding to the heritage aspect of the space are artworks from the Modern Art Movement. The Tatas have been custodians of art since their early days. Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) holds the most sacred collection of Indian Contemporary Art.

As one meanders through the corridors, significant works of MF Husain, SH Raza, Jamini Roy and Tyeb Mehta grab our attention. These works from 1968 to the 70s reflect Independent India's creative minds. It depicts what it meant to be an Indian in that era, addressing notions of equality and identity.

The Taj Art Gallery was the culmination of this vision. During the 60's, it helped spread awareness about modern art amongst Bombay's youth. The gallery re-opened in 2016, with the foresight of representing the country's emerging talent working on experimental media.

ITC MAURYA, NEW DELHI

The Great Procession by Mr Krishen Khanna at ITC Maurya

Under WelcomArt, the initiative of pan-India Responsible Luxury, ITC Hotels have been instrumental in showcasing and promoting Indian art. At the landmark ITC property, architecture, design, and art come together to reflect the cultural and historical ethos of the destination.

In the heart of the country's capital, ITC Maurya sets out as the perfect escape for the art and history buff in you. The property is an ode to the Mauryan dynasty (circa 322 to 185 BC), which has left the legacy of the Golden Age in Indian art and architecture.

Adding to the grandeur of the premises, the central dome, which represents a chaitya (a Buddhist Hall of worship), is the iconic mural- “The Great Procession", by renowned artist Krishen Khanna. Made on a curved surface on the lobby dome, the mural celebrates Mauryan history and Buddhist culture. Completed in 1979, it remains one of India's biggest artworks in any hotel. It is the perfect intersection of the past and the present.

Amaan Kidwai, Area Manager Luxury Hotels (North) & General Manager ITC Maurya adds, “Mr Krishen Khanna was instrumental in engaging several distinguished artists to contribute to the Mauryan-inspired theme of ITC Maurya. As a flagship property, ITC Maurya showcases one of the world's most beautiful collections of contemporary masterpieces of Indian art by globally renowned Indian artists.”

Cultural context remains an integral part of how one looks at luxury properties. These spaces help anchor historic storytelling to a wider and global clientele.

INDIRA GANDHI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, TERMINAL 3

The Mudra Installation at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Terminal 3

Craftsmanship and art are two of the most unique identities that Indians are known for. Terminal 3 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is one of the busiest in all of Asia. It acts as the runway for multiple International arrivals and bears the weight of reflecting our heritage. The iconic Mudra installation makes for the perfect announcement of one's arrival in Delhi. Symbolic of hand gestures, it acts as a sacred language for the expression of beauty and communication.

The project was designed by Incubis Consultants as part of an overall strategy of curating an experiential journey for travellers within the new terminal, including branding, signage, artefacts and art curation.

In a conversation with Rohit Krishan Gulati, Founder and Director, Incubis Consultants, said, "The aim was to give the global traveller entering India through Delhi a unique sense of place with reference to the Golden Age of India in a contemporary manner while providing the Indian traveller a sense of belonging and pride in its heritage."

The "Mudra" installation forms the centre-piece of this narrative and is located such that every traveller experiences on arrival. Terminal 3 was inaugurated in July 2010, just before the Commonwealth Games.

ARTBEAT, CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

As you land in the "City of Dreams," you are greeted by stunning artworks across all floors of the terminal. The 3.2km long gallery features over 5,500 artefacts and 100+ artworks which celebrate the identity of the subcontinent.

Unveiled as a part of the World Heritage Programme, it is one of the world's largest public art forums. It is divided into thematic zones, each painting a picture of the diverse cultures of our country. From Maharashtra's hand-painted screens to figurines with a Rajasthani style backdrop, this curation covers the length and breadth of Indian history, culture and mythology. With the provision of an audio guide app, The Artbeat of New India, one can get an insight into the stories behind these.

Understanding culture should not require a hectic schedule. It is lived and experienced amidst the quiet moments between boarding gates and long security queues.

RELEVANCE OF SUCH INITIATIVES

Lulu Raghavan, President APAC, Landor, states, "We are a country with so much rich visual heritage to draw upon. When we were designing T3 in Delhi airport, we developed a graphic language that drew from our cultural symbols of architecture, music and dance, to name just a few."

Spaces like these are being refreshed to communicate to audiences that takes back emotions. Rohit Krishan Gulati adds, "Airports are evolving - from sterile pathways to becoming more inviting with design cues that are inspired by vernacular architecture, symbols, history and culture"

These initiatives have integrated travel and culture. Artists and curators now work alongside architects and engineers, creating an enriching travel experience. Historical knowledge is now gained between the silent pauses, somewhere between delayed flights and the comfort of luxury living.