Pune: Educational institutions and universities earn their reputation not through their buildings but through their teachers and the students they nurture, said Prof Himkumar Chatterjee, noted mural artist and Vice-Chancellor of the prestigious Sir J. J. School of Art, Architecture and Design, a deemed university in Mumbai. “Teachers possess the ability to explain a subject and make students experience and understand it in depth. Therefore, students should ask questions to teachers rather than relying solely on AI,” Chatterjee said.

He was speaking at the Vishwarambh Kala Award ceremony organised by MIT Art, Design and Technology University at Loni-Kalbhor, Pune. Senior educationist and acclaimed visual artist Dr Sudhakar Chavan was honoured with the Vishwarambh Kala Award for his distinguished contribution to the field of visual arts. In Chavan’s absence, the award was received by his son Amit Chavan.

The event was attended by Jyoti Karad-Dhakane, Executive Director, MIT ADT University; Dr Nachiket Thakur, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, MIT ADT University; and Dr Ganesh Taratre, Dean, MIT School of Fine Arts, among others. Chatterjee said an artwork often outlives its creator and urged artists to focus not merely on commercial considerations but also on their contribution to society and the field of art. “Art remains with a person until the end of life. A person who has a genuine appreciation for art can understand the deeper human values associated with it,” he said.

The event also witnessed the release of the ‘AQ’ magazine and the unveiling of the logo of ‘Kalakosh’. An exhibition featuring artworks created by students of the MIT School of Fine Arts was also organised. The programme began with a Vishwashanti prayer and concluded with the national anthem. Prof Shirin Chimthanwal and Prof Teresa Joshi delivered the introductory remarks, while Prof Viraj Kamble proposed the vote of thanks.

“‘Vishwarambh’ itself represents the idea of creating something innovative and meaningful. The name draws inspiration from our mentor, Prof Dr Vishwanath D. Karad, who is also a fine artist. The world’s largest World Peace Dome and the Vishwaraj Baug are remarkable creations that reflect his vision. It gives me immense happiness to honour Dr Sudhakar Chavan with the Vishwarambh Kala Award.”

— Jyoti Dhakane-Karad

Executive Director, MIT ADT University, Pune