04/03/2026
In 1965, Soli and Moti Daruwala arrived in Madras from Bombay and founded Sarala’s Art Centre, one of the earliest spaces in South India dedicated to modern and contemporary art. At a time when the Indian art world was largely centred in Bombay and Delhi, they believed that artists in the South needed a platform, a meeting place, and a voice.
What began as a small but determined initiative slowly grew into a vibrant artistic community that nurtured generations of artists and helped shape the cultural landscape of the region.
In 1997, the journey expanded with the founding of Artworld, further strengthening our commitment to presenting and supporting artists across India and beyond.
As we celebrate 60 years of Sarala’s Art Centre, we do so with deep gratitude to everyone who has been part of this extraordinary journey.
To the artists who trusted us with their work and their vision.
To the writers and scholars who gave language to art and helped document its history.
To the curators who worked alongside us to create exhibitions and meaningful conversations.
To the press and cultural voices who helped share our story.
And to the collectors and patrons whose belief in artists sustained this ecosystem.
Your friendship, faith, and support have shaped everything that we are.
From the pioneering vision of Soli and Moti Daruwala, to the stewardship and dedication of Sarala and Bishwajit Banerjee, and now into its third generation, the journey of Sarala’s Art Centre and Artworld continues with the same spirit with which it began — a deep commitment to artists and to the evolving story of Indian art.
Sixty years later, we remain grateful for every artist, every exhibition, every conversation, and every friendship that has brought us here.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
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