Announcement Overview

On November 4, 2026, Godrej Foundation announced that it will sponsor a non‑permanent exhibition and cultural space, the Godrej Pavilion, at the upcoming India Biennale 2026‑27 in New Delhi. The pavilion will be situated within the historic precinct of Purana Qila and is scheduled to launch on December 4, 2026.

MoU and Participants

The foundation entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Culture (MoC), the organiser of the Biennale, and the architecture firm AUR on October 29. The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Culture in Delhi and was attended by:

  • Mrs. Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture
  • Mr. Shah Faesal, IAS, Deputy Secretary, MoC
  • Mr. Omar Momin, Chief Executive Officer, Godrej Foundation
  • Mr. Subhradip Roy, Technical Director, AUR
  • Mr. Rakesh Swami, Group President – Corporate Affairs, Godrej Industries Group

Biennale Context

The India Biennale will run from 4 December 2026 to 21 March 2027, spanning 108 days across Delhi’s heritage monuments, museums, galleries, public spaces and communities. Its curatorial vision is built on the theme “Tat Tvam Asi — You Are That”, emphasizing mindfulness, attention, and the connection between self, art, and community.

Pavilion Design and Theme

The Godrej Pavilion is designed under the theme “Shadows of the Arches”, drawing inspiration from the geometric arches of Mughal architecture that characterise Purana Qila. Key design elements include:

  • Outward‑facing arches and a red‑sandstone effect achieved with red stone‑dust painted cement board.
  • Low‑impact, temporary, and reusable construction methods that respect the protected monument.
  • Strategic windows for natural light and views of the historic structures, creating a protected space for contemplation.

Programme and Launch

The pavilion will host exhibitions, talks, workshops and other cultural programmes throughout the Biennale. It will open with an exhibition titled “Three Measures of the World”, curated by Sharan Apparao and Sayantan Maitra Boka, exploring the realms of earth, sky, and the space in between.

Official Statements

  • Shri Vivek Agarwal, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, highlighted India’s cultural heritage as a strength and praised the pavilion as a thoughtful addition that bridges contemporary design with historic legacy.
  • Mrs. Lily Pandeya emphasized the pavilion’s role in fostering vibrant dialogue and cultural conversations.
  • Mr. Shah Faesal noted the pavilion’s contribution to making art and culture more accessible.
  • Mr. Omar Momin expressed pride in collaborating to create a space that marries timeless Indian architecture with contemporary design.
  • Mr. Subhradip Roy described the pavilion as an ornamental yet minimal provocation within the protected precinct, fostering a dialogue between red stone dust finish and the existing red sandstone.
  • Mr. Rakesh Swami underscored Godrej Foundation’s enduring commitment to national cultural heritage.

About Godrej Foundation

Godrej Foundation is an independent philanthropic trust that holds a 15 percent shareholding in the Godrej Industries Group. Its mission is to strengthen the foundations of a prosperous India by catalysing economic growth, supporting technology innovators, and empowering disadvantaged communities. The foundation’s vision includes supporting gifted students and underserved populations across the country.

---