General V.P. Malik Inaugurates Landmark Exhibition Celebrating Chandigarh's Modernist Legacy
In a significant cultural event, General V.P. Malik, former Chief of Army Staff, formally inaugurated the exhibition "Chandigarh's Indian Modernists" at the Government Museum & Art Gallery in Sector 10. This exhibition marks a pivotal moment in the celebrations commemorating 75 Years of the Idea of Chandigarh, organized by the Chandigarh Citizens Foundation (CCF).
Showcasing Collaborative Genius
The exhibition meticulously foregrounds the seminal contributions of Indian architects, engineers, administrators, and cultural practitioners who collectively shaped Chandigarh's distinctive modernist identity. Through an extensive collection of drawings, sketches, photographs, paintings, archival material, furniture, and writings, it presents the city not merely as an architectural project but as a profound product of collaborative intellectual and institutional effort.
Curated by Professor Vikramaditya Prakash and Eashan Chaufla, the display highlights how shared innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration played a defining role in molding Chandigarh's built and cultural environment. The concept was initiated by Deepika Gandhi, convener of CCF's focus group, emphasizing a re-examination of the city's legacy within a broader national context.
Preserving Institutional Memory
Addressing the gathering, General Malik underscored the critical importance of preserving institutional memory and recognizing the Indian minds that contributed significantly to Chandigarh's development with a modernist approach. He expressed appreciation for CCF's efforts in creating a platform that fosters a deeper understanding of the city's historical and cultural significance.
The exhibition is a collaborative endeavor, organized by Chandigarh Citizens Foundation in partnership with several esteemed institutions:
- Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH)
- Panjab Digital Library
- MN Sharma Architectural Society
- Panjab University Architects Office
- PGIMER Department of Clinical Photography
- Government Museum & Art Gallery, Chandigarh
Exhibition Details and Public Access
The exhibition will remain open to the public until March 29, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore Chandigarh's modernist heritage. It will be closed on Mondays and gazetted holidays, ensuring accessibility while maintaining operational standards. This event serves as a testament to the enduring impact of collaborative creativity in shaping one of India's most iconic cities.
