Snapshots
If you haven’t been paying attention, the Indian art scene is having a major moment. Galleries are pulling out all the stops, collectors are eyeing the next big thing, and curators are bringing the kind of shows that make you rethink what art even is. Whether you’re an art aficionado, an Instagram aesthetic hunter, or just someone who likes a good excuse to sip wine while staring at canvases—you need to bookmark these exhibitions happening across India in 2025.
1. Dalí Comes to India (New Delhi & Mumbai) – Surrealism takes over
Yes, you read that right. The legend of surrealism, Salvador Dalí, is making a grand entry into our country with a major retrospective showcasing some of his most iconic (and mind-bending) works. Expect melting clocks, dreamlike landscapes, and enough eccentricity to make you question your grip on reality. While Dali may have never made it to India, over 200 of his artworks are set to make a splashing entry. This is the show for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates a little bit of madness in their masterpieces.
Don’t miss: The original Persistence of Memory on display, because seeing those melting clocks up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
When: February 7 to 13, 2025 and February 15 to March 15, 2025
2. Kochi-Muziris Biennale (Kerala) – The artsy escape
You know what’s better than an art exhibition? An entire coastal town turned into an open-air gallery. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is the ultimate immersive experience, with contemporary artists transforming old spice warehouses and colonial structures into thought-provoking installations. Expect boundary-pushing works, socially charged themes, and art that makes you feel things (yes, even that existential dread).
Don’t miss: The performance art series, because sometimes, watching someone roll around in paint is part of the experience.
When: December 2025 – March 2026
3. Serendipity Arts Festival (Goa) – Where art meets party
Picture this: You’re walking through a gallery, admiring avant-garde photography, and then boom—you’re at a riverside concert, cocktail in hand. That’s the vibe at the Serendipity Arts Festival. It’s equal parts serious art and laid-back Goa energy. Expect an explosion of music, dance, theatre, and, of course, some ridiculously cool visual art.
Don’t miss: The experimental digital art showcase, because AI-generated paintings are the future, and we’re kind of into it.
When: December 2025
4. Art Mumbai (Mumbai) – The city’s biggest art extravaganza
If Mumbai had an art heartbeat, this festival would be it. Art Mumbai brings together collectors, galleries, and artists from across the globe for a multi-day art affair that showcases everything from contemporary Indian masters to cutting-edge international works. Think sleek modernist paintings, bold sculptures, and enough creative energy to keep you buzzing for weeks.
Don’t miss: The emerging artists’ section, because discovering the next big thing before they get famous is an elite flex.
When: November 2025
5. NGMA Retrospective (Mumbai & Delhi) – The must-see classics
The National Gallery of Modern Art is rolling out retrospectives on some of India’s most legendary artists in 2025. Whether you’re into the vibrant chaos of MF Husain or the poetic minimalism of Nasreen Mohamedi, there’s something for everyone. It’s a crash course in Indian art history—minus the boring textbook vibes.
Don’t miss: The guided tours, because a little expert commentary never hurt anyone.
When: All year round
6. Flower of Fire: The Life and Art of Gopal Ghose (Kolkata) – A watercolour master’s tribute
Gopal Ghose, often called one of India’s greatest watercolourists, finally gets the grand retrospective he deserves. Flower of Fire dives deep into his breathtaking landscapes, luminous skies, and expressive brushwork that captures the post-independence spirit of India. Held in Kolkata, the city he called home, this exhibition is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the poetry of watercolour and the legacy of an artist who painted with pure emotion.
Don’t miss: His vibrant depictions of Kolkata’s changing seasons, because few artists could make monsoon clouds look this magical.
When: January – March 2025
7. Dhaka Art Summit (Not India, but worth the trip!)
Yes, it’s in Bangladesh, but if you’re serious about South Asian contemporary art, you have to make the trip. This biennial event is a melting pot of experimental installations, film screenings, and cross-cultural dialogues. Plus, the energy is electric—think art world insiders, international collectors, and a whole lot of creative genius under one roof.
Don’t miss: The young South Asian artists' pavilion, because discovering the next big thing is always exciting.
When: February 2025
2025 is The year for art lovers
Whether you’re in it for the gram, the cultural enlightenment, or the sheer love of art, 2025’s exhibition lineup is stacked. From the iconic India Art Fair to the offbeat charm of Kochi-Muziris, these are the places where creativity is thriving bringing the global art market to your cities.
So, grab your most artsy outfit (yes, that means oversized blazers, chunky rings, and that tote bag), and start planning your art adventures. Because if there’s one thing we know, it’s that the best kind of inspiration comes from seeing art in real life.