In a bold and thought-provoking exploration of womanhood and societal constraints, Suhani Ahuja, a Grade 12 student from Vasant Valley School, has made her mark with the recent exhibition titled ‘Her Astitva: The Devis of Our Society Shackled’. This powerful showcase aims to raise awareness about the social injustices faced by women from birth through to their final moments.
Suhani, a budding artist with a rich family legacy in creativity, has set out to use her artwork as a force for social change. “Art has the power to voice the unspoken, to challenge the status quo, and to inspire change,” Suhani shared. “Through ‘Her Astitva’, I hope to spark conversations around the complex realities that women navigate in our society.”
The exhibition examines the paradoxical treatment of women — revered as goddesses yet constrained by societal norms. Each piece in the collection confronts the roles imposed on women, addressing sensitive topics such as marriage, widowhood, menstruation, molestation, trafficking, and the silenced experiences of abuse.
With a diverse range of mediums, from oil paintings to mixed media installations featuring materials like wood, fabric, thread, and cloth, Suhani’s work challenges stereotypes and reimagines traditional norms. “My art seeks to expose the divide between a woman’s societal image and her suppressed reality,” Suhani explained. “It’s about giving a voice to the struggles endured in silence and highlighting the fight for autonomy.”
Suhani’s 13 years of training in classical Kathak dance has deeply influenced her artistic journey, shaping her understanding of rhythm and colour. “Dance has taught me to view the world through a different lens,” she reflected. “It’s this unique perspective that I bring into my creations.”
In a meaningful initiative, all proceeds from the exhibition, including sales from Suhani’s sustainable fabric jewellery brand ‘Re #Hash by Suhani’, will be donated to the Shakti Foundation. This charitable gesture aligns with her vision of art as a medium for social impact.
The exhibition has drawn attention from prominent figures, including Bansuri Swaraj, a member of Parliament (Lok Sabha, New Delhi), who praised Suhani’s work: “Ms. Suhani Ahuja’s exhibition beautifully captures the strength, struggles, and indomitable spirit of women through art. Her work reflects these experiences with grace and passion.”
The event’s Guest of Honour, Nawal Kishore, an acclaimed visual artist known for his striking representations of the female form, added another layer of artistic discourse to the exhibition, bridging generations of artists dedicated to exploring feminine themes.
‘Her Astitva’ has become a call to action, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in conversations around women’s rights and societal expectations.
As Suhani puts it, “I believe that art is a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. Through this exhibition, I hope to inspire others to find their own voices and use creativity as a means for positive change.”
This exhibition stands out as a significant event in Delhi’s art scene, offering fresh perspectives on age-old issues through the eyes of a young and passionate artist. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and social activists alike, showcasing the undeniable role of art in driving social change.
