Kamna Malik has been appointed as the Show Curator of the AD Design Show. It is Architectural Digest India’s flagship design fair. The announcement marks a significant moment for the show as it looks to deepen its curatorial vision and strengthen its position as the country’s premier platform for design culture.
Malik brings a robust background in design curation, criticism, and cultural programming to the role. Known for her nuanced understanding of the intersection between craft, contemporary design, and everyday life, she is expected to shape the show’s thematic direction and exhibitor selection with a sharper editorial lens.
About Kamna Malik
Kamna malik is a design curator and brand strategist whose work sits at the intersection of design, culture, media and business. She has over 18 years of experience across the platforms of publishing, design initiatives, and brand building. She has been an integral part of shaping the conversations around design in India, owing to her prior experience as Head of India Design ID. Her work is rooted in a belief that design today must operate across disciplines, engaging both critical discourse and commercial realities without losing its experimental edge.
“Design in India is at a fascinating inflection point — it is simultaneously looking inward at its material and craft heritage and outward at global conversations around sustainability and technology,” Kamna Malik said. “The AD Design Show offers a unique stage to bring these conversations to a wider audience.”
The AD Design Show, held annually in Mumbai, draws leading designers, architects, brands, and design enthusiasts from across the country. With Malik at the curatorial helm, organizers indicate a stronger emphasis on storytelling, emerging talent, and design’s role in addressing contemporary social challenges.
Mrinalini Ghadiok, Head of Editorial Content, Architectural Digest India, said: “As we continue to shape and deepen this platform, we are delighted to welcome Kamna Malik as Show Curator. Her keen eye for storytelling, combined with a deep experience in the industry, will play a pivotal role in strengthening the curatorial vision of the AD Design Shows in 2026.”
The upcoming edition is expected to feature curated installations, panel discussions, and spotlights on independent Indian designers alongside established studios and international labels.
Athmaja Biju is the Editor at Abir Pothi. She is a Translator and Writer working on Visual Culture.
