Please join us for an opening reception of The Body of the Ascetic, an exhibition that explores how asceticism has been represented across diverse spiritual and cultural traditions in the history of the Indian subcontinent. Featuring works that span different mediums, time periods, and identities, the exhibition presents a nuanced view of the ascetic figure.

Conversation | 7:30 - 8.15 PM
Curator Gayatri Sinha and sociologist Manisha Sethi

Curator Gayatri Sinha and sociologist Manisha Sethi explore how ascetic traditions in India have shaped ideas of the body, spirituality, discipline, and identity across centuries. Through art, history, and lived practices, the speakers will discuss how figures like monks, yogis, fakirs, and female renouncers have influenced not just religion, but also culture, politics, gender roles, and artistic expression.