At just 17, emerging curator Azaan Karan has made a curious debut with his exhibition Indian Art Through the Ages, held at Bikaner House, New Delhi, from October 5 to 7, 2025. The exhibition brings together more than 70 works, offering visitors a sweeping panorama of Indian art spanning centuries—from classical miniatures and court traditions to the bold experiments of modern masters like F.N. Souza, M.F. Husain, and S.H. Raza, as well as the innovative voices of contemporary artists.
“This exhibition is meaningful to me because it brings together traditions and ideas I’ve long admired, from the intricacy of miniatures to the boldness of modern masters and the innovation of contemporary artists,” said Azaan Karan. “I hope visitors leave with a renewed sense of connection to our shared cultural history.”
The exhibition’s curatorial approach juxtaposes diverse eras of Indian art, inviting reflection on the country’s cultural continuity and reinvention. It traces Indian art’s evolution over the past 2000 years, beginning from celestial ancient forms through colonial influences and Raja Ravi Varma’s neoclassical fusion, culminating in the experimental openness characterizing contemporary practice today.
Azaan, who is also a podcaster and researcher, has engaged deeply in India’s art ecosystem through internships at the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art and his podcast Art with Az, featuring conversations with over 50 leading artists, curators, and collectors. His debut as a curator embodies a storytelling-driven vision that seeks to demystify art and make it accessible to younger generations.
Thukral & Tangra | Tapestry and Krishen Khanna | Bandwallah
Indian Art Through the Ages gathered artists, collectors, and cultural leaders at its opening evening on October 4, 2025. Hosted at the historic Bikaner House, the exhibition offers art lovers a rare opportunity to experience a continuum of India’s artistic transformations under one roof, sparking dialogue about identity through visual culture.
Azaan Karan represents a fresh perspective in cultural narratives—a curious, rigorous young voice bridging traditions, modern masters, and contemporary innovation. The show underscores his commitment to making art history come alive for new audiences.
Exhibition Details
Indian Art Through the Ages
Curator: Azaan Karan
Dates: October 5–7, 2025
Time: 11 AM – 6 PM
Location: Bikaner House, New Delhi
Cover image courtesy: Ranbir Kaleka
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