The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), under the Ministry of Culture, has announced an Open Call for a Student Art Competition as part of its international exhibition “The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One”, inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
This national-level competition invites young artists to explore and interpret Buddhist Jataka Stories—timeless narratives that convey moral values, compassion, wisdom, and the philosophical foundations of Buddhism—through visual art.
Competition Theme
Artworks inspired by Buddhist Jataka Stories
Participants are encouraged to creatively engage with stories depicting the previous lives of the Buddha, reflecting ethical living, harmony, and enlightenment through diverse artistic expressions.
Eligibility Categories
- Category I (12–18 years): School students (Government & Private)
- Category II (18–25 years): College students from Art & Design Institutes
Awards (Per Category)
- First Prize: ₹10,000
- Second Prize: ₹7,000
- Third Prize: ₹5,000
- Five Consolation Prizes: ₹2,000 each
Important Dates
- Registration Last Date: 22 January 2026
- Competition Date: 30 January 2026
- Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Venue
Exhibition Complex, Qila Rai Pithora (Rainpithora Cultural Complex)
Lado Sarai, New Delhi
(Near Malviya Nagar Metro Station, Gate No. 1)
Registration
Contact
Naresh Tanwar
Mobile no. 9891315171
Why This Competition Matters
This initiative bridges heritage, art, and youth participation, encouraging students to engage with India’s and Asia’s shared Buddhist legacy while fostering contemporary artistic dialogue. It also offers young creators a rare opportunity to showcase their work within a prestigious international exhibition framework.
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