The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2025 , marks its 25th edition, celebrating diverse artistic expressions and Mumbai's vibrant heritage. Among the highlights is 'The Force Within,' a monumental installation by Mumbai-based artist Bandana Jain . Crafted entirely from recycled corrugated cardboard, this life-sized work reflects themes of sustainability, resilience, and the city's indomitable spirit.

Tell us about the theme of your installation?
'The Force Within' is a powerful piece of sustainable art that features a galloping horse emerging from two giant hands. The horse represents progress, boundless energy, and forward momentum, while the hands symbolize strength, care, and the unwavering commitment of those who have nurtured the Kala Ghoda Art Festival.

The theme is a tribute to the remarkable women and visionaries who worked tirelessly to protect and elevate the festival, overcoming challenges like legal hurdles and societal scepticism. Their efforts have transformed Kala Ghoda into a globally recognized celebration of culture and creativity.

Standing at an impressive 9x9x9 feet, the installation embodies resilience and the transformative spirit of Mumbai—a city that thrives on energy, inclusivity, and collective strength.

How long did it take to create?

It took around three months of careful planning and execution to bring this piece of sustainable art to life. What makes it truly remarkable is the material—recycled packaging material - and approximately 1,000 kg of waste was repurposed to create this life-sized installation.

One fascinating aspect is the layering technique used to give the horse depth and texture, making it appear almost lifelike. Each layer carries its own history, much like the layers of Mumbai’s vibrant story.

How is Mumbai's spirit reflected?

Mumbai’s spirit is all about resilience, inclusivity, and turning challenges into opportunities, and this installation reflects that perfectly. The galloping horse captures the city’s unstoppable energy and progress, while the nurturing hands symbolize the collective strength and support that drive Mumbai forward.

What makes this piece even more special is the inclusion of Mumbai’s iconic tetra pods. These structures, originally designed to protect the city’s coastline from powerful waves, symbolize Mumbai’s protective and adaptive nature. In the installation, they highlight the city’s role as a safe haven, sheltering its people while standing strong against challenges.

This combination of sustainable art, thoughtful symbolism, and connection to Mumbai’s identity makes “The Force Within” a true representation of the city’s heart and soul.