19 Essential Arts, Culture & Heritage Stories for Cultural Leaders

Stay ahead with the latest news on arts, culture and heritage from Indian print media, curated by Press Monitor's media monitoring. This press review from Press Monitor's print media monitoring gives you the media intelligence you need to stay informed. Here are 19 essential stories from today's papers, covering everything from landmark court rulings to new art initiatives.

1. Supreme Court Closes Art of Living Case

A front-page report in Deccan Herald says the Supreme Court has set aside the National Green Tribunal’s order against the Art of Living, vindicating the organisation after nearly a decade of allegations surrounding the 2016 World Culture Festival. The court found no reliable evidence that the festival caused damage to the Yamuna floodplains and directed the Delhi Development Authority to refund Rs 5 crore.

Why it matters: The Supreme Court has set aside the National Green Tribunal's order against the Art of Living, ending a decade-long controversy over the 2016 World Culture Festival.

Key detail: The court found no evidence of damage to the Yamuna floodplains and directed the Delhi Development Authority to refund Rs 5 crore.

Source: Deccan Herald, DHNS

Next step: Cultural organisations can now plan large-scale events with greater legal clarity.

2. Yuj Foundation Unveils 'Art of Community'

A front-page report in Free Press Journal says, Yuj Foundation has unveiled ‘Art of Community’, an archival book documenting the evolution and impact of India’s Public Art Festivals. The commemorative edition traces the movement from its first Dumas Art Project in Surat in 2013 to 33 festivals across Surat, Bengaluru, Chennai, Amritsar, Nagpur and other cities, attracting more than 1 million visitors.

Why it matters: A new archival book documents the evolution of India's Public Art Festivals from 2013 to 33 festivals across multiple cities.

Key detail: The movement has attracted over 1 million visitors.

Source: Free Press Journal

Next step: Explore the book for insights into community-driven art.

3. Violent Museum Heists Rise in Europe

A front-page report in Indian Express says, Europol reported that art thieves in Europe are committing more violent robberies focusing on gold and jewels. The heist at the Louvre Museum in Paris in October last year was a prime example of these shifts, Europol said, as the thieves threatened guards and visitors, and stole €88 million worth of jewels.

Why it matters: Europol reports a shift towards violent robberies targeting gold and jewels in European museums.

Key detail: The Louvre heist in Paris last October saw thieves steal €88 million worth of jewels while threatening guards.

Source: Indian Express

Next step: Indian museums should review security protocols.

4. Ambanis Highlight India's Heritage on Global Stage

"A front-page report in Millennium Post says that the Ambanis are dedicated to showcasing India’s heritage, talent, and achievements globally. They create significant contributions in sports, entertainment, arts and culture, education, and philanthropy, effectively highlighting Indian culture on the international stage,” the report states. Neeta Ambani, in particular, is praised for her genuine pride and passion in representing India’s cultural achievements. The family’s role in fostering India’s global image is deemed ‘incomparable’.

Why it matters: The Ambani family is recognised for showcasing Indian culture, talent, and achievements internationally.

Key detail: Neeta Ambani is praised for her passion in representing India's cultural achievements.

Source: Millennium Post

Next step: Follow the family's cultural initiatives for global branding lessons.

5. Historic Church to Transform into Celestial Canvas

A front-page report in Free Press Journal says that Colaba’s historic Church of St John the Evangelist, popularly known as the Afghan Church, will be transformed into a canvas of light, colour and celestial imagery from August 27 to 29. The landmark will host ASCENSION, an immersive projection-mapping installation by the Floating Canvas Company as part of the Mumbai Light Festival.

Why it matters: The Afghan Church in Colaba will host ASCENSION, an immersive projection-mapping installation as part of the Mumbai Light Festival.

Key detail: The event runs from August 27 to 29.

Source: Free Press Journal

Next step: Attend or promote this fusion of heritage and digital art.

6. UoH Honors Oggu Katha Artists

A front-page report in Deccan Chronicle says twenty-five Oggu Katha artists from across the state were honoured at the University of Hyderabad (UoH) on Monday, recognising their contribution to preserving and carrying forward the state’s traditional folk storytelling art.

Why it matters: Twenty-five traditional folk storytellers were recognised for preserving Telangana's Oggu Katha art form.

Key detail: The honour took place at the University of Hyderabad.

Source: Deccan Chronicle

Next step: Support folk art preservation through academic partnerships.

7. Sabyasachi Unveils 26,000 Sq Ft Flagship Store in Delhi

"A lux- ury store should simply sell products. It should inspire curiosity, preserve culture and create memory," says Sabyasachi Mukherjee, founder and creative director of his brand. The 26,000 square feet flagship at The Citadel, One Style Mile, Mehrauli, doubles the brand’s original Delhi footprint, bringing fashion, jewellery, accessories, art and craft together within one uniquely Sabyasachi retail environment. The launch took place on August 25, in a 26,000 square feet destination at The Citadel, more than twice the size of its previous dual-building location. The flagship marks a significant expansion for one of the brand’s most commercially important markets, and introduces dedicated spaces for high jewellery and accessories alongside its fashion collections.

Why it matters: The flagship at The Citadel, Mehrauli, doubles the brand's Delhi footprint and integrates fashion, jewellery, art, and craft.

Key detail: Sabyasachi Mukherjee says the store should inspire curiosity and preserve culture.

Source: Morning Standard

Next step: Visit the store to experience curated Indian craftsmanship.

8. Artist Ravikumar Kashi Transforms Pulp into Three-Dimensional Forms

A front-page report in New Indian Express says... Artist Ravikumar Kashi transforms pulp into intricate, three-dimensional forms that challenge conventional perceptions of the material and engage in a dialogue.

Why it matters: The artist challenges conventional perceptions of pulp material through intricate 3D forms.

Key detail: Featured in New Indian Express.

Source: New Indian Express

Next step: Explore his work for innovative art techniques.

9. Aasha Singh Jaiswal Dies at 83

A front-page report in Millennium Post says veteran character actress and mimicry artist Aasha Singh Jaiswal died at the age of 83 on August 22 in Mumbai. She was widely recognised for her roles in the television show Mahabharat and films such as Baazigar and Bobby Jasoos.

Why it matters: The veteran actress and mimicry artist, known for Mahabharat and Baazigar, passed away.

Key detail: She died on August 22 in Mumbai.

Source: Millennium Post

Next step: Pay tribute by revisiting her iconic roles.

10. Contemporary Canvas at Lalit Kala Akademi

A front-page report in Morning Standard says: At Lalit Kala Akademi’s 65th National Exhibition of Art in Delhi on Monday

Why it matters: The 65th National Exhibition of Art opened in Delhi, showcasing contemporary works.

Key detail: Held at Lalit Kala Akademi.

Source: Morning Standard

Next step: Visit the exhibition for a pulse on Indian contemporary art.

11. Preserve Heritage: Paigah Tombs in Hyderabad

A front-page report in Deccan Chronicle says the historic Paigah Tombs in Hyderabad are an important part of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage, yet their deteriorating condition reflects the lack of proper maintenance and protection of our historical monuments.

Why it matters: The historic Paigah Tombs are deteriorating due to lack of maintenance.

Key detail: The tombs are an important part of Hyderabad's architectural heritage.

Source: Deccan Chronicle

Next step: Advocate for better heritage conservation policies.

12. France's First Traditional Stone Hindu Temple to be Inaugurated

A front-page report in Free Press Journal says... Saint-Georges, near Paris, is set to be inaugurated in September. Organisers describe it as France's first traditionally designed stone Hindu temple. A 13-day Festival of Culture will be held from Sept 2 to 14, featuring religious ceremonies, processions, cultural programmes.

Why it matters: A traditionally designed stone Hindu temple near Paris will open in September, accompanied by a 13-day Festival of Culture.

Key detail: The festival runs from Sept 2 to 14.

Source: Free Press Journal

Next step: Attend or promote this cultural bridge between India and France.

13. Delhi Villages Fear MPD-2047 Losses

A front-page report in Asian Age says Delhi's 357 villages are being categorised under regeneration of unplanned areas in the Master Plan for Delhi 2047. Critics at a conference organised by the Dilli Dehat Project argue this overlooks their status as historic settlements and threatens the protection of village commons and heritage.

Why it matters: Delhi's 357 villages are being categorised under regeneration of unplanned areas, threatening heritage and village commons.

Key detail: Critics argue the Master Plan overlooks their historic status.

Source: Asian Age

Next step: Engage with the Dilli Dehat Project to protect urban heritage.

14. Dogri Drama Seminar Begins in Jammu

A front-page report in State Times says a two-day seminar on Dogri Drama, jointly organised by the Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi and Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, began on Monday at K. L. Saigal Writers Club, Jammu to deliberate upon the rich tradition, evolution and diverse dimensions of Dogri drama.

Why it matters: A two-day seminar on Dogri Drama organised by Sahitya Akademi and J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages.

Key detail: Held at K. L. Saigal Writers Club.

Source: State Times

Next step: Attend to support regional theatre.

15. UT-Level Mushaira Held at GDC Bhaderwah

A U'Level Jashn-e-Azadi Mushaira was organised at Government Degree (PG) College Bhaderwah on Sunday as part of celebrations highlighting the spirit of freedom, patriotism and the region's rich cultural heritage. Additional Deputy Commissioner Bhaderwah Sunil Kumar Bhutyal attended the literary programme as the chief guest, while the College Principal was the guest of honour.

Why it matters: A Jashn-e-Azadi Mushaira celebrated freedom and cultural heritage.

Key detail: Additional Deputy Commissioner Sunil Kumar Bhutyal attended as chief guest.

Source: State Times

Next step: Participate in such literary events to promote cultural dialogue.

16. Poets Highlight Religious Harmony

A front-page report in Free Press Journal says poets from different faiths gathered at Islam Gymkhana to recite Naatiya poetry praising Prophet Muhammad, promoting love and unity.

Why it matters: Poets from different faiths gathered at Islam Gymkhana to recite Naatiya poetry praising Prophet Muhammad.

Key detail: The event promoted love and unity.

Source: Free Press Journal

Next step: Organise similar interfaith cultural events.

17. Cultural Events at Ravindra Bharathi

A front-page report in Deccan Chronicle says a Telugu paata book release and Sculpture Showcase are scheduled at Ravindra Bharathi. The Telugu paata book release is set for 6 pm and the Sculpture Showcase for ll am at Telangana State Gallery of Fine Art.

Why it matters: A Telugu paata book release and Sculpture Showcase are scheduled.

Key detail: Events at Ravindra Bharathi and Telangana State Gallery of Fine Art.

Source: Deccan Chronicle

Next step: Attend to support Telugu literature and sculpture.

18. Def Col Art Night Flourishes in Delhi

A front-page report in Morning Standard says the Def Col Art Night, launched in February 2026, has grown into one of Delhi’s vibrant monthly events. Curated by Kalakar Art Salon, it draws crowds and features new and ongoing shows in prominent galleries.

Why it matters: The monthly art night, curated by Kalakar Art Salon, has become a vibrant Delhi event.

Key detail: Features new and ongoing shows in prominent galleries.

Source: Morning Standard

Next step: Attend the next Def Col Art Night for networking.

19. Women's Strength Honoured

A front-page report in First India says... A confluence of Dharma, Indian culture, traditional values and women’s empowerment was witnessed at the ‘Matra Shakti Samman’, Leheriya Mahotsav and felicitation ceremony for elderly women, organised by Vedic Sanatan Jankalyan Charitable Trust, Jaipur.

Why it matters: The 'Matra Shakti Samman' and Leheriya Mahotsav celebrated women's empowerment and traditional values.

Key detail: Organised by Vedic Sanatan Jankalyan Charitable Trust in Jaipur.

Source: First India

Next step: Support initiatives that honour elderly women and cultural traditions.

Which of these stories impacts your work most? Share your thoughts in the comments.