As Indian athletes competed in the Olympic Village, a significant cultural event unfolded at the 7th Arrondissement Town Hall in Paris, highlighting India’s rich history at the Olympics. The event, organised by the JSW Group, showcased Indian art celebrating the country’s Olympic journey from the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp to the present day.
Paris-based Indian artist Sujata Bajaj was among the featured artists. Her canvas masterfully combined the Indian flag with the Olympic rings, using vibrant hues of orange, green, blue, white, and red. Bajaj’s work incorporated the Ashoka chakra within the central Olympic circle, subtly hinting at gold, silver, and bronze medals through metallic sheens. “The fluidity of the colours suggests world maps as seen from space, embodying the universality of the Olympic message,” Bajaj noted. She emphasised that her painting symbolizes the shared commitment of French and Indian cultures to both tradition and modernity.
The event also unveiled three hand-embroidered works commissioned by Sangita Jindal, Chairperson of the JSW Foundation. Crafted by artisans from the Chanakya School of Craft under the guidance of creative director Karishma Swali, the series ‘Citius—Altius—Fortius’ commemorates landmark moments in Indian Olympic history. These include Sakshi Malik’s bronze in wrestling at the 2016 Rio Olympics and Neeraj Chopra’s gold in javelin at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. The artworks, which blend vivid tones and various stitching techniques, reflect the dynamic energy and elegance of sports while honouring the intricate beauty of traditional craft.
Swali described the creations as embodying the spirit of movement and resilience, celebrating both the human form and its storied achievements. “This synthesis captures the delicate balance of artistry and athleticism,” she said.
Sujata Bajaj, whose artistic journey bridges both France and India, expressed her gratitude for being chosen to represent the Olympic legacy through her work. “It was an honour to create a piece that celebrates both French and Indian pride while anchoring it within the Olympic spirit,” Bajaj remarked. The event not only celebrated India’s Olympic achievements but also showcased the artistic and cultural dialogue between India and France.
FEature Image: Artist Sujata Bajaj
