In a groundbreaking development for the Indian art world, New Delhi’s prestigious India Art Fair (IAF) is set to expand its footprint to Mumbai in 2025. This new edition, named India Art Fair Contemporary (IAFC), will showcase cutting-edge contemporary art and design, establishing a bold new platform in one of the country’s most dynamic cultural hubs. Scheduled to take place from November 13 to 16, 2025 at the scenic Jio World Garden, the fair aims to feature 50 to 70 exhibitors, including a range of Indian and international galleries, design studios, and cultural institutions(
Why Mumbai? The City of Art and Culture
Mumbai, often referred to as India’s financial capital, is also a city of profound artistic expression. Over the years, it has become a melting pot for creativity, housing some of the most prominent private galleries, cultural institutions, and innovative artistic initiatives such as Mumbai Gallery Weekend. The city’s thriving art ecosystem, coupled with its growing base of collectors and artists, makes it the perfect location for IAF’s expansion(
Mumbai’s art scene isn’t just vibrant—it’s global. From contemporary galleries showcasing emerging talent to international exhibitions drawing art lovers from around the world, the city is recognized as one of the most important cultural centers in Asia. With the India Art Fair Contemporary, Mumbai will now be at the forefront of South Asian contemporary art, furthering its role as a crucial node in the global art network.
The Vision for IAFC 2025
According to Jaya Asokan, the director of India Art Fair, the expansion to Mumbai is a response to the growing appetite for contemporary art across India and internationally. “The appetite for art in India has grown significantly over recent years, and this is the perfect time to launch a bold new fair focusing on the contemporary moment,” Asokan said, emphasizing the excitement around curating a platform dedicated to showcasing modern creativity(
This expansion isn’t just about growth; it’s about enhancing the dialogue between art and design. By blending traditional gallery presentations with interdisciplinary collaborations, the IAFC promises to offer a unique mix of artworks that reflect Mumbai’s rich heritage as a global port city, drawing inspiration from South Asia, Africa, and South America(
A Reflection of India’s Economic Growth
The timing of the IAFC launch aligns with India’s booming economy, which the World Bank recently reported as the fastest-growing major economy in the world(
Artnet News). This economic surge has catalyzed greater investment in art, with more collectors and institutions emerging across India’s metropolitan cities. Mumbai, in particular, is home to some of Asia’s wealthiest individuals, making it an ideal location to attract both high-profile collectors and new art investors.
The India Art Fair has long been a barometer for the state of modern and contemporary art in South Asia, offering a platform for artists, galleries, and collectors to engage with new trends and ideas. Expanding into Mumbai will give the fair even more reach and influence, ensuring that contemporary art from the region gets the recognition it deserves.
Looking Forward: A New Era for Indian Contemporary Art
The India Art Fair Contemporary represents a pivotal moment for the Indian art market. As the nation’s contemporary art scene continues to grow, this expansion into Mumbai will provide artists and galleries with unprecedented opportunities to connect with a global audience. The event promises not only to enhance Mumbai’s artistic landscape but also to elevate India’s position in the international art world.
In addition to being a major event for art collectors and enthusiasts, the IAFC is set to become a major cultural festival for the city of Mumbai. The fair will likely include special programs, exhibitions, and cross-disciplinary collaborations, making it a must-visit event for anyone interested in art and culture.
With its unique blend of contemporary art, innovative design, and cultural dialogue, the India Art Fair Contemporary is poised to be a landmark event in 2025, and Mumbai’s art scene is set to thrive like never before. As India’s art market continues to expand and flourish, this new chapter promises to bring exciting developments, not just for the city, but for the global art community as well.