Lucknow: An evocative art exhibition titled “Bol Ke Lab Azaad Hain Tere” was organized at the Gandhi statue preises inside University of Lucknow’s Tagore Library by Kalarav, an art collective of students from the College of Arts and Crafts.
The exhibition stood out as more than just a cultural showcase—it emerged as a powerful expression of creative freedom at a time when spaces for dialogue, dissent, and expression in universities are increasingly perceived to be shrinking. Through their works, students sought to underline that art is not merely aesthetic but a vibrant medium of social engagement and intervention.
Transforming a public space into an alternative cultural platform, the exhibition reinforced the idea that artists and their expressions are deeply intertwined with society and capable of influencing it.
In the handicraft section, Anya Chaudhary and Shweta Yadav presented works reflecting sensitivity and lived social experiences. The painting segment featured participation from students across academic years, including Neeraj Verma, Poorvi, Nikhil, Avantika, Divyanshi Chaudhary, Goldy, Purnima Pathak, Srashti, Rukmini Nishad, Nitin, Janhvi Sharma, Santosh Verma, Atul Verma, Ritesh Kapoor, Krishna Yadav, Anuj Chaubey, Rudra Pratap Singh, and Shani, who depicted contemporary social realities and personal narratives through colors and forms.
Sharing their perspectives, participants emphasized the role of art as a catalyst for dialogue. Nitin (third year) said that when institutions grow uncomfortable with questions, art presents them more sharply. Neeraj highlighted that the initiative aims to take art beyond gallery walls and connect it with public life and social concerns.
Janhvi Sharma noted that freedom of expression is not just a theoretical concept but something that must be practiced, while Atul Verma stressed that art loses its meaning if detached from society. First-year student Avantika expressed that the platform gave equal voice to all participants, regardless of seniority.
Other students echoed similar sentiments, stating that in today’s context, speaking itself has become a political act, and art provides a meaningful way to assert presence and identity within society.
The exhibition by Kalarav reflects a growing consciousness among young artists to engage with pressing social questions rather than remain detached. It marks a significant step toward creating inclusive, democratic, and dynamic cultural spaces within the university campus.
