Book Launch

Shakti Maira’s new book ‘Towards Ananda: Rethinking Indian Art and Aesthetics’ was launched formally in Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore in April and May 2006.

Mumbai: April 6, 2006

The book launch coincided with the opening of an exhibition of a collection of work done by Shakti over the past 25 years and being shown now for the first time. The well-attended event, held at the Jamaat Art Gallery, was followed by a lively discussion on art and aesthetics in which Shakti was joined by artist Jahangir Sabavala and Jamal Mecklai.

Shakti signing a copy of the book (left), guests at the launch, and Pravina Mecklai of Jamaat Art Gallery (right)

Delhi: April 11, 2006

The launch of ‘Towards Ananda’ was held at the lecture hall of the India International Centre Annexe, and was accompanied by a talk by Shakti Maira on ‘Indian Art and Aesthetics and Globalisation’. The programme was chaired by eminent poet, Ashok Vajpeyi. An interactive session followed the talk, where members of the audience questioned Shakti on issues concerning art and aesthetics.

Mrs Usha Maira, Shakti’s mother, releasing the book

Ashok Vajpeyi, Karthika of Penguin with Shakti (left), Mr Vajpeyi chairing the session, and the audience at the launch

Bangalore: May 5, 2006

‘Towards Ananda’ was released by Jerry Rao, CEO and Chairman of MphasiS, and a discussion on art and aesthetics followed in which Shakti participated along with Jerry Rao and Anmol Vellani, Director, India Foundation for the Arts. The event was held at the Oxford Bookstore.

For coverage of this event, click on these links:

• The Hindu

• Deccan Herald

• New Indian Express

The interactive session (left), and Shakti addresses the audience as Jerry Rao and Anmol Vellani look on (right).