The 23rd edition of Chitra Santhe, India’s largest one-day art festival, is taking place today, Sunday, January 4, 2026. Organized by the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath (CKP), the event has transformed the 1-km stretch of Kumara Krupa Road into a vibrant open-air art gallery.
This year’s theme is dedicated to the Environment, with a special focus on Bengaluru’s ecological challenges, sustainability, and climate change.
1. Event Schedule and Highlights
The festival is expected to attract over 5 lakh visitors throughout the day, featuring a diverse range of artistic styles and live performances.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Official Inauguration: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah formally inaugurated the event at 10:30 AM today. Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar opened the thematic art exhibition.
- Participants: Over 1,500 artists from 22 states and four Union Territories are showcasing their work.
- Art Forms: Visitors can explore everything from traditional Mysuru and Thanjavur paintings to contemporary abstract art, sculptures, caricatures, and live sketching sessions.
- Thematic Exhibition: In collaboration with the Vanalok Foundation, a nature-based exhibition is running at the CKP galleries. This specific exhibition will remain open until January 12, 2026.
2. Traffic Advisory and Transport
To manage the massive footfall, the Bengaluru City Traffic Police have implemented strict restrictions and provided alternative transport options.
- Road Closures: All vehicle movement is prohibited on Kumara Krupa Road (from Windsor Manor Junction to Shivananda Circle) from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM today.
- BMTC Feeder Buses: Special feeder buses are operating every 10 minutes from Majestic, Shivajinagar, Vidhana Soudha, and Mantri Square Metro stations to Shivananda Circle.
- Parking Areas: For those using private vehicles, limited parking is available at:
- Railway Parallel Road
- Crescent Road (Western side)
- Race Course Road (Eastern side)
3. Key Tips for Visitors
- Virtual Viewing: If you cannot attend in person, the Parishath has launched a virtual art gallery at www.ckpvirtualartworld.in to view and purchase artworks online.
- Payments: While most artists accept UPI, carrying some cash is recommended for smaller purchases or caricature sessions, as network congestion can sometimes occur.
- Accessibility: Electric buggies are available at designated spots to assist senior citizens and differently-abled visitors.
Chitra Santhe 2026 at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Date | Sunday, Jan 4, 2026 |
| Theme | Environment & Sustainability |
| Artists | 1,530 Selected Exhibitors |
| Price Range | ₹100 to several lakhs |
| Location | Kumara Krupa Road, Bengaluru |
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