Art Mandai Returns for Republic Day: How Pune’s Vegetable Market Became an Open Art Gallery
Every Republic Day, Pune’s busiest vegetable market transforms into one of India’s most unique art spaces. Art Mandai, an annual exhibition held at the historic Mandai market, has completed nearly a decade of making art accessible, affordable, and welcoming to everyone. What began as a small collective effort by local artists has now become a cultural tradition that blends creativity with everyday life.
Held on January 26 each year, Art Mandai breaks the stereotype that art belongs only in elite galleries. By placing artworks amid vegetable stalls and daily shoppers, the event invites people from all backgrounds to experience and even own original art.
The Idea Behind Art Mandai
Art Mandai was born in 2015 when a group of well-known artists began questioning why art remained confined to galleries and privileged spaces. They realised that many people felt hesitant to enter formal art venues, often believing that art was meant only for a select group.
Instead of waiting for audiences to come to galleries, the artists decided to take art directly to the public. Pune’s Mandai market, one of the oldest and largest vegetable markets in the city, became the perfect setting.
The concept was simple: sit alongside vegetable vendors and sell original artwork at affordable prices. Over time, what seemed unusual turned into a celebrated annual event.
This Year’s Theme: Beauty in the Everyday
For Republic Day 2026, Art Mandai celebrates its milestone edition with the theme “Beauty in the Everyday.” The theme reflects the exhibition’s core philosophy — finding creativity in ordinary materials and daily life.
Participating artists have used rocks, wood, ceramics, cloth, scrap, and recycled objects to create meaningful works. These materials mirror the surroundings of the market and connect art directly with people’s lived experiences.
This year, 27 artists are participating, most of them emerging talents. Three performance artists will also entertain visitors with short presentations featuring poetry, dance, and music. The exhibition runs from 9 am to 2 pm, turning Mandai into a vibrant cultural hub for five hours.
Growing Acceptance and Community Support
When Art Mandai began, even vegetable vendors were unsure about the idea. Many wondered why artists wanted to sit beside them and sell paintings instead of produce. However, within a few years, strong friendships developed.
Artists and vendors now see the event as mutually beneficial. Increased footfall brings more customers to the market, while visitors enjoy both shopping and art browsing. The festival has strengthened community bonds and created a shared sense of pride.
Core committee members including Gauri Gandhi, Sujata Dharap, Rashmi Bhadkamkar, Falguni Gokhale, Shyam Dhavale, Indrani Garai, and Ruby Jhunjhunwala continue to nurture this vision.
Making Art Truly Affordable
One of Art Mandai’s strongest principles is affordability. From the beginning, the organisers decided that prices should remain within reach of ordinary citizens.
Artworks started at ₹500 in 2015, and even after ten years, the highest price remains ₹3,000. All pieces must be original, and 35 per cent of earnings are donated to social causes.
This pricing strategy allows students, shopkeepers, office workers, and families to own authentic art without financial pressure. Many buyers purchase works as gifts or for personal collections, spreading appreciation for creativity.
Art as Therapy and Wellness
Not everyone who visits Art Mandai comes to buy. Many simply walk through the exhibition, observe the artworks, and return home refreshed. Organisers believe that being surrounded by creativity has a calming effect.
According to Sujata Dharap, art helps relieve stress and promotes emotional well-being. In a fast-paced urban environment, Art Mandai offers a rare moment of pause and reflection.
The event has revealed a hidden audience of art lovers — people who may never visit galleries but deeply connect with visual expression.
Our Thoughts
Art Mandai represents one of the most meaningful grassroots cultural movements in urban India. By placing art in the heart of everyday commerce, it challenges traditional hierarchies and expands creative access.
Its success proves that interest in art exists far beyond elite circles. With minimal marketing and maximum sincerity, the initiative has built a loyal audience over ten years.
More cities could learn from this model. When art is removed from intimidating spaces and placed in familiar environments, it becomes inclusive and empowering.
Art Mandai is not just an exhibition. It is a reminder that creativity belongs to everyone, and that beauty can be found in the most ordinary places.