The foundation of all meaningful creative pursuit is freedom. As the political din across the world gets louder, as peoples’ worldviews continue to shrink, and as technological advances  divide more than they unite, the voices propagating an independent opinion are few and far between.

But there are those who will not be silenced. For them, the pursuit of freedom is underlined by an incredible sense of integrity and responsibility to both themselves, and the world at large. IFBE salutes these lone crusaders, and dedicates the week of India’s independence to celebrating and amplifying these voices.

As part of the Independence Project, IFBE presents a week-long celebration of freedom through art, performance, and reflection. Highlights include photography and film exhibitions by the Citizens Archive of India and Dharavi Art Room, a stirring musical evening with Kavish Seth, and breathwork sessions with Dr. Shailendra Chaubey. The program also features powerful documentary screenings, contemporary dance performances curated by Gauri Sharma Tripathi and Aaron Fernandes, a movement and writing workshop with Diya Naidu, and the acclaimed play Aaeen by The Company Theatre. The week concludes with a calligraphy workshop led by Achyut Palav for young artists from Dharavi.