Nayanaa Kanodia, a pioneer of naïve art in India, returns to New Delhi after nearly two decades with her solo exhibition Staged Realities. This captivating show at CCA, Bikaner House, curated by Archana Khare-Ghose and presented by Dhoomimal Gallery, blends recent and earlier works.
Kanodia captures Mumbai’s bustling streets, elite private worlds, class divides, gender roles, and urban rhythms. Her distinctive style mixes sensitivity, gentle humour, and staged compositions where reality meets imagination—offering a fresh glimpse into her evolving practice from 11–20 April 2026.


The Perfect Stroll Acrylic on Canvas | The View from One Window Acrylic on Canvas | Image Credit: Dhoomimal Gallery
About the Exhibition
Staged Realities opens on 11 April at CCA, Bikaner House. Dhoomimal Gallery presents this show, curated by Archana Khare-Ghose. It mixes old and new works. Visitors see Kanodia’s take on city chaos and calm spaces.
The show runs till 20 April. It marks her return to Delhi. Her art feels real yet staged. This Staged Realities exhibition pulls you into everyday Mumbai scenes.



Liesure Time | Living Our Dreams Oil on Canvas | Aparajita | Image Credit: Dhoomimal Gallery
Nayanaa Kanodia’s Unique Practice
Nayanaa Kanodia leads naïve art in India. She spots small moments in Mumbai’s busy streets and rich homes. Her paintings mix fact with fun ideas.
“My work comes from watching the world, especially Mumbai in flux,” Kanodia says. “I catch daily bits and contradictions. They turn into detailed scenes where real meets dream.” Her style stays true over years.
Curator’s Fresh View
Archana Khare-Ghose spots warmth in Kanodia’s work. She likes how ordinary life turns deep. No big drama, just sharp looks at how we act.
“What grabs me is her eye for the everyday,” Khare-Ghose says. “She makes normal feel full of stories. There’s wit and bite under the kindness.” This view fits Staged Realities well.

Gallery Owner’s Take
Uday Jain from Dhoomimal Gallery praises her steady voice. Art worlds change, but Kanodia holds firm. Her works feel light yet true.
“Nayanaa built a special style quietly,” Jain says. “She grabs street mess and quiet rooms with honest fun. Staged Realities feels personal and for all.”

Key Themes in Staged Realities
Kanodia probes class, gender, and city beats. Her naïve art shows elite lives and street rush. It blends soft laughs with real truths. Staged Realities in New Delhi lets fans see her growth.
Exhibition Details
- Title: Staged Realities
- Artist: Nayanaa Kanodia
- Venue: CCA, Ground Floor, Bikaner House, New Delhi (presented by Dhoomimal Gallery)
- Dates: 11–20 April 2026
- Time: 5pm–9pm
This article has been created from the press kit shared with Abir Pothi. For press releases and related queries, write to editor@abirpothi.com.
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