KGAF 2009 was a far more diverse event than earlier years. There just seemed to be a lot more variety even in the themes that got exhibited.

One strong theme was living in Mumbai - that got carried across the photography exhibit and a giant art walk through. The focus here was basic hygiene factors being denied to over 65% of citizens. Starting with overcrowding, to available toilets, to water supply …. and all of these conveyed through innovative exhibits

A pyramid of plastic buckets.

The other theme, that brought a smile to the face was Chai. ‘made in Chaina’. Mithali Mehta’s exhibit seemed to gently mock at our obsession with all things foreign, while bemoaning the risk to the chai in the face of gloabalisation - don’t worry Mithali, the recession will make sure that the cutting chai will survive - and was a homage to the drink that is everyone’s favourite beverage.

And, of course, less than 10 weeks after 26/11 - there was a giant exhibit of letters and views on terrorism and terrorists. Some were simple, some were hate filled, others wondered why they hate us … in any case it seemed to be the voice of many - as opposed to a few - and it was on display in a raw form that made the words more poignant.

visitors to the exhibit reading the letters