The Kala Ghoda Art Festival is an iconic cultural celebration in the heart of South Mumbai, and the 2025 edition marked a special milestone: the Silver Jubilee, celebrating 25 glorious years of artistic expression and community engagement. From January 25 to February 2, 2025, this festival brought together thousands of people, art lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, to experience the dynamic world of visual art, music, dance, theatre, and workshops, all within the vibrant streets of the Kala Ghoda neighborhood.
This year’s theme was particularly captivating: horse-themed art installations. Horses have long been a symbol of strength, grace, and freedom, and the festival’s theme reflected a deep exploration of these qualities through a variety of art forms. The visitors were treated to stunning horse sculptures, intricate paintings, and interactive installations that celebrated the magnificent animal. Whether you were an art aficionado or just a curious visitor, the installations provided a feast for the eyes and an opportunity to engage with the creative process.
From large, life-size sculptures to delicate models, the festival offered an eclectic mix of art pieces that allowed for a deeper connection with the concept of the horse.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Kala Ghoda Art Festival is that it is free to attend, making it accessible to all. The organizers ensured that this festival remained open to everyone, inviting a diverse crowd to experience and appreciate the art. It’s an event that welcomes people from all walks of life, from seasoned art lovers to casual festival-goers.
The festival also catered to people with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for all. Wheelchairs, ramps, and designated spaces for people with disabilities were strategically placed throughout the venue, allowing everyone to enjoy the festival without hindrance. The inclusive nature of the festival is a testament to its commitment to community, ensuring that art is available and accessible to everyone who wishes to partake.
While the festival focused on visual art, the experience extended far beyond just the installations. In addition, numerous workshops were held throughout the week, offering attendees the opportunity to engage with art more hands-only. The Kala Ghoda Art Festival, in its 25th year, showcased a perfect blend of entertainment, learning, and cultural celebration that drew in both locals and international visitors.
This year’s edition of the Kala Ghoda Art Festival felt different to me, as it was my first visit post-pandemic. The excitement of attending such a grand event after a long hiatus was palpable, but I couldn’t help but notice the overwhelming crowds. The bustling streets, packed with visitors, made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the art installations. The constant clicking of photos and videos seemed to distract many from appreciating the art itself. I found myself questioning if, in our quest for the perfect Instagram shot, we had lost the essence of truly understanding and experiencing the art on display.
Of course, I too participated in the social media frenzy, capturing a fair share of pictures and videos to preserve the memories. However, I couldn’t help but wish that there was more space and time to read about and appreciate the story behind each piece. It sometimes felt like the art installations were secondary to the spectacle of capturing them for social media, and that’s a dynamic worth reflecting on.
Despite the chaos, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the festival. The vibrant energy, the diversity of art, the food stalls, and the general atmosphere made the experience unforgettable. I indulged in some mouth-watering chaat and freshly made jalebis, which were perfect for fuelling my exploration of the various exhibits. Though the rush made it difficult to explore everything in-depth, I did manage to purchase a beautiful cotton scarf as a souvenir from the 2025 Kala Ghoda Art Festival—my reminder of this incredible experience. I am already looking forward to next year’s edition in 2026, hoping it will be an equally grand event.
One of the most impressive aspects of this year’s festival was the flawless execution and organization. The event ran smoothly thanks to the dedication and hard work of the volunteers and the police personnel present throughout the venue. They ensured that the crowd was managed effectively, maintained safety, and helped everyone navigate the festival space without hassle. It was evident that the festival was meticulously planned and managed, and I would like to give a special shoutout to the volunteers and the law enforcement officers for their tireless efforts in making sure everything went on without a hitch.
The Kala Ghoda Art Festival is a celebration of not just art, but community spirit. It is a testament to how art can bring people together, transcend cultural boundaries, and inspire change. As visitors, we also have a responsibility to appreciate the art and contribute to the success of such events by maintaining decorum and respecting the artistic process.
The 25th Kala Ghoda Art Festival was an incredible success—a celebration of art, culture, and community that will be remembered for years to come. While the crowds and the overwhelming focus on capturing moments for social media were distractions, the overall experience was one of joy, discovery, and connection. This year’s Silver Jubilee celebration was a reminder of the power of art to unite and inspire, and I’m grateful to have been part of it. Here’s to many more years of Kala Ghoda Art Festival celebrations!
