From May 20 to 27, 2025, Rashtrapati Bhavan hosted a group of Madhubani and Gond artists as part of its Artists-in-Residence programme, Kala Utsav. This initiative aimed to celebrate and promote India's rich folk and tribal art traditions.

Key Highlights:

Artists-in-Residence Programme: Rashtrapati Bhavan welcomed artists specializing in Madhubani art from Bihar and Gond art from Madhya Pradesh. The programme provided them with a platform to showcase their traditional art forms in their original essence. 

Meeting with the President: On May 26, the artists met with President Droupadi Murmu. She viewed their artworks created during the residency and commended their dedication to preserving India's traditional art forms. 

Participating Artists: The Madhubani artists included Shanti Devi, Ambika Devi, Manisha Jha, Priti Karn, Ranjan Paswan, Urmila Devi, Shravan Paswan, Kumari Nalinee Shah, and Moti Karn. The Gond artists were Durgabai Vyam, Subhash Vyam, Nankusia Shyam, Ram Singh Urveti, Dilip Shyam, Champakali, Heeraman Urvety, and Japani Shyam Dhurwey. 

Kala Utsav's Objective: Kala Utsav, under the Artists-in-Residence programme, aims to provide a national platform for folk, tribal, and traditional artists, ensuring the continuation and appreciation of India's diverse art heritage. 

Promotion of Traditional Arts: The initiative underscores the importance of preserving and promoting traditional Indian art forms, offering artists recognition and support at a national level. 

This programme reflects Rashtrapati Bhavan's commitment to cultural preservation and the promotion of India's rich artistic traditions.