NGMA Bengaluru Hosts Exhibition Featuring Botticelli's Madonna and Child
On 20 August 2026, the National Gallery of Modern Art in Bengaluru opened the 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues' exhibition. It features 26 Indian and Italian artefacts, including Sandro Botticelli's Madonna and Child, displayed in India for the first time. The exhibition runs until September 20 and emphasizes themes of motherhood and feminine identity.
The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bengaluru inaugurated the 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues' exhibition on 20 August 2026. This significant event showcases Sandro Botticelli's renowned Renaissance painting, Madonna and Child, created around 1490. It marks the first time this masterpiece is on display in India, following its previous exhibition in Delhi. The event runs until September 20 and features 26 exquisite artefacts from India and Italy, exploring themes of motherhood, feminine identity, and the maternal bond through a cross-cultural lens. Co-curated by Naman P Ahuja and Andrea Anastasio, the exhibition thoughtfully juxtaposes Botticelli's celebrated European work with ancient Indian goddess carvings. This intentional pairing highlights the diverse cultural interpretations of maternal devotion, creating a narrative that resonates with visitors. The gallery's basilica-inspired design enhances this visual dialogue, offering an immersive experience that reflects the rich artistic heritage of both cultures.
Inaugurated by Karnataka Tourism Minister KJ George, the exhibition represents a collaborative effort between the Consulate General of Italy in Bengaluru, NGMA, and the Union Ministry of Culture. This initiative is a key component of the upcoming India-Italy special strategic partnership, emphasizing cultural diplomacy and mutual appreciation. The Prestige Group has actively supported the event, with Rezwan Razack’s Museum of Indian Paper Money serving as the official cultural partner, underscoring the importance of community engagement within this artistic endeavor. To promote accessibility and inclusivity, the exhibition organizers have arranged guided visits, interactive educational outreach, and school programs. These initiatives ensure that the global historical heritage represented in the exhibition is accessible to all attendees, fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the displayed artefacts.
The gallery welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, offering free entry for minors who present valid identification, making it a family-friendly environment. The 'One Mother, Many Mother Tongues' exhibition not only celebrates the artistic achievements of Botticelli and the cultural richness of Indian heritage but also paves the way for future collaborations between Italy and India. As the exhibition progresses, it is expected to attract significant attention, enhancing the cultural landscape of Bengaluru and contributing to the ongoing dialogue about motherhood and identity in a global context.
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