The Eternal Kumbh: A Journey beyond the Visible

The Eternal Kumbh: A Journey beyond the Visible

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 21: What does a pilgrim truly seek at the Kumbh? Is it the sacred river, the blessings of the divine, the wisdom of the Sadhus-or a moment of stillness in which one can hear the voice within? These questions lie at the heart of THE ETERNAL KUMBH – A Journey Beyond the Visible, a collection of spiritual paintings by artist Vaishali Kishor Kale, inspired by the Simhastha Maha Kumbh Mela 2026 in Nashik. The exhibition is on view at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, from 19 to 25 October 2026.

The Kumbh is one of India’s most profound expressions of collective faith. It brings together pilgrims, saints, ascetics, rituals and traditions in a gathering shaped by devotion and the search for spiritual meaning. Yet, beyond the scale of the gathering and the spectacle of the sacred river, the experience is deeply personal. For some, it is an act of surrender; for others, a renewal of faith, a search for answers or a quiet movement towards inner awakening.

Through this collection, Vaishali looks beyond the visible grandeur of the Kumbh to explore the emotions, symbols and moments that give it meaning. The paintings draw on the intense presence of Naga Sadhus, the timeless symbolism of Mahadev, the sacred flow of the Godavari, the glow of Aarti and the meditative resonance of the Shankh, Trishul, Damru and Rudraksha. Saffron hues, temple silhouettes, reflections on water, contemplative faces and ritual gestures become more than subjects on canvas; they become invitations to pause, observe and reflect.

The exhibition is not simply a visual record of a religious gathering. It seeks to interpret the Kumbh as an inner journey-one that begins in the outer world and gradually turns inward. Each painting offers a different entry point into this experience: the energy of collective devotion, the solitude of a seeker, the power of a sacred symbol or the stillness that can emerge amid immense movement. Together, the works suggest that while millions may gather at the same place, every individual carries a personal journey of faith.

Vaishali’s artistic practice has itself been a journey of discovery. With a longstanding affinity for colour and canvas, she chose to pursue painting professionally in 2017. Her first solo exhibition followed in 2019, marking an important step in developing her independent artistic voice. In 2022, she presented her work at the iconic Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai. Since then, her exhibition record has included art and cultural venues across Maharashtra, including Shahu Smarak Bhavan and Kaladabhi Art Festival in Kolhapur; PTC and Hotel Ganpati Palace in Dhule; Nehru Centre Art Gallery, DD Neroy Art Gallery, Kala Spandan Art Fair, Bombay Art Society, Kala Ghoda Art Festival and India Art Festival in Mumbai; as well as Ruturaj Regency and Mahasanskriti Mahotsav in Dhule. Her works have appeared in solo and exhibition presentations between 2019 and 2025.

Alongside her spiritual paintings, Vaishali has explored subjects from India’s history, mythology and cultural memory on a monumental scale. Her works include a large painting of the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, measuring 11 feet by 7 feet; a monumental circular painting of Mahadev, reaching 10 feet in height; and a painting based on the Dashavatara, the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. These works reflect her interest in bringing powerful cultural narratives to life through scale, symbolism and visual storytelling.

For Vaishali, painting is a way of giving form to what is difficult to express in words. “My canvas is where these journeys meet,” is the thought that guides her approach: devotion, nature and the human spirit come together in images that invite viewers to look beyond the immediate subject. In THE ETERNAL KUMBH, the sacred is not presented only as an external spectacle; it is also experienced through the quiet emotions that remain with a person long after a ritual has ended.

The exhibition arrives at a meaningful moment, as Nashik prepares for the Simhastha Maha Kumbh Mela, beginning on 31 October 2026. By presenting this collection before the pilgrimage begins, the artist gives audiences a chance to pause and encounter its spiritual atmosphere through art. The paintings encourage viewers to consider what they might seek on such a journey-and what, in turn, the journey might awaken within them.

THE ETERNAL KUMBH – A Journey Beyond the Visible is ultimately an invitation to see with more than the eyes: to experience faith not only as a public gathering, but as a personal passage towards reflection, connection and inner discovery.

EXHIBITION DETAILS

Exhibition: The Eternal Kumbh – A Journey Beyond the Visible

Artist: Vaishali Kishor Kale

Dates: 19-25 October 2026

Timings: 11:00 AM-7:00 PM

Venue: Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai

Theme: A series of paintings inspired by the Simhastha Maha Kumbh Mela 2026, Nashik

Website: www.vkcreations.com

Contact: +91 74997 01108

Instagram: @vaishalikishor_08

Facebook: VK Creations

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat 2026 Celebrated in Purvi Champaran (Motihari), Bihar with a Month-Long Series of National, Cultural, MSME, Defence and Youth Programmes

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat 2026 Celebrated in Purvi Champaran (Motihari), Bihar with a Month-Long Series of National, Cultural, MSME, Defence and Youth Programmes

Motihari, East Champaran (Bihar) [India], September 25: Purvi Champaran (Motihari), Bihar witnessed a month-long celebration of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat 2026” from 1 September to 2 October 2026, bringing together a diverse series of programmes focused on national integration, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, MSME development, agriculture, defence awareness, environmental conservation, cultural heritage and nation-building.

The programme was conceived around the spirit of “Unity in Diversity”, which is at the core of the Government of India’s Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative. The national programme seeks to strengthen understanding and bonding among people across States and Union Territories through structured engagement in culture, language, tourism, sports and other areas.

A major attraction of the celebrations was the MSME Mela and MSME Meet, which provided entrepreneurs, artisans, manufacturers, start-ups and small businesses with a platform to showcase their products, interact with institutions and explore opportunities for enterprise development and market linkages. The MSME-focused activities also highlighted the contribution of small businesses and local entrepreneurship to employment generation and regional economic development.

The celebrations also featured a strong Defence and National Security component, including a Defence Exhibition and Defence Expo, through which visitors, students and young people received an opportunity to learn about India’s defence capabilities, indigenous manufacturing and the role of technology in national security. A related Defence Enclave Exhibition Centre, supported by the defence sector, was also highlighted during the programme. The recently held activities in Motihari brought together farmers, entrepreneurs, scientists and defence personnel around the broader theme of national development.

Another important component was the Farmer Conference, focusing on agriculture, allied activities, technology, entrepreneurship and opportunities for rural communities. The programme provided a platform for farmers and stakeholders associated with agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, horticulture and allied sectors to exchange ideas and learn about emerging opportunities.

Environmental responsibility formed another key pillar of the celebrations. Tree plantation and environmental awareness programmes were organised to promote the message of sustainable development and encourage citizens, particularly young people, to participate in protecting the environment.

The “Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat” programme became an important youth-centric initiative of the celebrations. A special seminar on drug-free youth and nation-building featured IRS officer Sameer Wankhede, former Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau, Mumbai Zone, as a key speaker. The programme focused on creating awareness among young people about the consequences of substance abuse and encouraging youth to contribute positively to society and the nation. Contemporary reporting also confirms the Motihari programme featuring Sameer Wankhede in September 2026.

The month-long programme also featured a major Developed India campaign, youth interactions, cultural programmes and activities designed to connect young citizens with the larger vision of national development. The emphasis was on encouraging youth participation, civic responsibility, innovation, discipline and constructive engagement.

One of the most anticipated highlights was the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team air show at Gandhi Maidan, Motihari. The planned demonstration featured the renowned Surya Kiran team and attracted significant public attention. Due to adverse weather conditions, the scheduled performance on 24 September could not take place, with a further performance planned for 25 September subject to weather conditions.

The celebrations also paid tribute to India’s freedom struggle through a Freedom Fighters Felicitation Ceremony, honouring the contribution and sacrifices of freedom fighters and preserving their legacy for younger generations.

The programme brought together public representatives, government officials, entrepreneurs, farmers, students, youth, defence personnel, social organisations and citizens from different sections of society. Through its combination of MSME development, defence awareness, agriculture, youth empowerment, environmental conservation, cultural activities and national integration, the celebrations sought to present a comprehensive platform for community participation and nation-building.

Prospective Sponsors / Institutional Partners

The programme received institutional support and sponsorship participation from a wide range of organisations, including:

Impact Creation Partner State Bank OF India ( SBI),  Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL), Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF),Amul,Brand , Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), Bank of Baroda (BOB), Bank of India (BOI), Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE Limited), Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Central Coalfields Limited (CCL), Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), GAIL (India) Limited, Gliders India Limited (GIL), Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), India Optel Limited (IOL), Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), Jute Board, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC Limited), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), Punjab & Sind Bank, Punjab National Bank (PNB), Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC Limited), Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, Troop Comforts Limited (TCL), Union Bank of India, Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), IDBI Bank Limited and Indian Bank.

The Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat 2026 celebrations in Purvi Champaran thus provided a broad platform for connecting culture with development, youth with opportunity, entrepreneurship with markets, agriculture with technology and national pride with responsible citizenship, reinforcing the message of a united and progressive India.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (National Holiday for National Hero)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti (National Holiday for National Hero)

Shivaji’s legacy is undoubtedly significant in the context of Indian history, and the entire nation should do the celebration of his Jayanthi. Announcing February 19th as a HINDAVI SWARAJYA ABHIYAN DIWAS & National Holiday is a tribute to his contributions to the country.

Commencement of “NATIONAL HOLIDAY FOR NATIONAL HERO”

A great devotee of Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj always wanted to pay tribute to his God Shivaji Maharaj. He aspired to make a significant contribution to the legacy of Shivaji. To fulfill this ambition, he conceived the idea of advocating for the declaration of Shivaji Jayanti as a national holiday.

He is none other than Mr. CD Chavan. He is a self-made entrepreneur who has achieved great heights of success with hard work, determination and discipline. He is a person who greatly admires Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj wished to do something significant for the nation. He came up with the idea of declaring Shivaji Jayanti a national holiday as a gesture of respect and recognition for the revered leader.

> We invite volunteers across India to join our team as State In charges, District In charges, Committee Members to promote and actively work on our Mission.

> Our campaign got more than 1 lakh support who wants to work for Hindu Rashtra. But, we believe that our campaign “National Holiday for National Hero” and “Hindavi Swarajya Abhiyan Divas” is the 1st step towards achieving the Hindu Rashtra.

> Achieving a Hindu Rashtra is challenging without giving due recognition to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He is Epitome of Swarajya and serves as an inspiration and guide toward Hindu Rashtra.

Why We Need a Holiday & Benefits of Declaring Hindavi Swarajya Abhiyan Diwas?

  1. Cultural Education: Celebrating Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti as a national holiday would allow parents to teach their children about his life, fostering national pride and awareness. His legacy would gain nationwide and global recognition, with schools, universities, and offices participating in commemorations.
  2. Cattle Protection and Earth Conservation: Maharaj’s early efforts to protect cows and respect nature serve as a model for cultural and environmental preservation. Our campaign encourages everyone to follow his example in protecting cows and conserving the environment.
  3. Naval and Military Inspiration: Shivaji Maharaj’s establishment of a powerful navy and military was crucial for his kingdom’s defense. Our campaign inspires youth to join the armed forces, drawing from his legacy of honor and dedication.
  4. Guerrilla Warfare: Shivaji Maharaj’s innovative guerrilla warfare tactics in challenging terrains demonstrate strategic brilliance. His legacy inspires bravery and resourcefulness, especially among young people.
  5. Respect for Women: Maharaj’s strong stance on protecting and respecting women sets a high standard. Our campaign promotes his values of respect and protection towards women.
  6. Preservation of Culture: Maharaj’s efforts to restore temples and preserve Sanathana Hindu culture are commendable. Raising awareness about him will encourage the protection of cultural heritage.
  7. Rural Development: Inspired by Maharaj’s strategies, our campaign aims to motivate youth to drive rural development, promoting prosperity in villages.
  8. Leadership and Governance: Maharaj exemplified effective leadership and governance, advocating courage, justice, and community welfare. Declaring his Jayanti a national holiday would honor these principles.
  9. Political Wisdom: Maharaj’s ability to collaborate with and oppose political figures for the nation’s benefit teaches valuable lessons in political strategy and foresight.
  10. Guru-Shishya Relationship: The strong bond between Maharaj and his mentors underscores the importance of the Guru-Shishya tradition. Our campaign encourages students to value this relationship.
  11. Inspiration for Youth: Recognizing Chhatrapati Shivaji Jayanti as a national holiday would honor his contributions and inspire the youth to follow his example.
  12. Encouraging Positivity: Maharaj’s legacy offers a beacon of inspiration for youth facing challenges, helping them overcome adversity with courage.
  13. Timeless Inspiration: Maharaj’s greatness serves as a continuous source of inspiration. Statues of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj should be installed in every city and town to remind people daily of his legacy. Additionally, every household should have an idol or photo of Maharaj, with daily prayers offered to honor and draw inspiration from him.
  14. Countering Western Superheroes: Western narratives often highlight superheroes like Superman and Batman, but these are fictional characters. Our campaign aims to shift focus towards real heroes like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, whose legacy embodies genuine valor and leadership. By celebrating and emulating our historical figures, we encourage the youth to admire and follow the example of our real heroes, rather than being influenced solely by artificial characters from Western media.
  15. Government Support and Contribution: The government can play a pivotal role in this campaign by officially recognizing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Jayanti as a national holiday. This can be achieved through legislative action and public awareness programs. Additionally, the government can support the campaign by organizing nationwide events, educational initiatives, and cultural programs to highlight Maharaj’s contributions. By collaborating with local authorities and educational institutions, the government can facilitate the installation of statues and memorials, and promote the importance of Maharaj’s legacy in schools and public spaces. Such efforts will ensure that his legacy is honored and celebrated across the country.

Shobha Yatra on February’19: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2ekfdY33cw

ACHIEVEMENTS:

Our #voteforshivajijayanti campaign reached to around 3 crore People.

1 Lakh people voted to declare Shivaji Jayanti a National Holiday.

Palvai Harish Babu MLA(Sirpur Assembly) spoke in the Assembly about the #voteforshivajijayanti campaign.

Payal Shankar(Adilabad) Spoke in the Assembly about the #voteforshivajijayanti campaign.

We have been able to Hold the Shab e Meraj Festival Holiday decision taken by Telangana Government.

Conclusion: The life story of Shivaji Maharaj serves as an invaluable source of inspiration and guidance for every Indian. By acquainting ourselves with his exemplary qualities, we not only honor a historical figure but also enrich our own lives. Importantly, the campaign emphasizes the role of parents in passing down the extraordinary achievements and greatness of Shivaji Maharaj to the younger generation. By doing so, we ensure that the legacy of this iconic figure continues to inspire and shape the values of future generations, fostering a sense of national pride and unity.

The campaign encourages every Indian citizen to vote and support this initiative. Votes can be cast through missed calls at 07941055779 or by visiting www.voteforshivajijayanti.com and https://shivajimaharajfoundation.com Emphasizing the importance of passing down Shivaji Maharaj’s extraordinary achievements to future generations ensures the enduring legacy of this iconic figure, fostering national pride and unity.

I request every Indian Citizen to Vote and support the campaign.

Sincerely: CD Chavan (Founder & Chairman)

SREE CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI MAHARAJ FOUNDATION

To cast your vote give a missed call to this number

07941055779

Visit our website to Vote

www.voteforshivajijayanti.com

https://shivajimaharajfoundation.com

 https://www.facebook.com/voteforshivajijayanti

https://www.instagram.com/voteforshivajijayanti/

https://x.com/voteforshivaji

https://www.youtube.com/@voteforshivajijayanti

https://www.quora.com/profile/Vote-for-Shivaji-Jayanti

https://medium.com/@voteforshivajijayanti

https://www.change.org/p/national-holiday-for-national-hero