In an age of digital distractions and impersonal entertainment, Art Baithak revives the magic of intimate, live cultural encounters. Led by voice artist and arts patron Mona Shetty through the Leela Ghosh Foundation, established in memory of her mother, Leela Ghosh, this initiative fosters deep connections between artists and audiences. Curated in collaboration with figures like Prachi Saathi, it brings multidisciplinary performances to unconventional spaces across cities. In this interview, Mona Shetty shares the origins, impact, and aspirations of Art Baithak.

How did the idea of Art Baithak come about?

The concept emerged organically in 2022 from a casual chat between Prachi Saathi and Sumeet Nagdev, who offered his studio space at Sumeet Nagdev Dance Arts. What began as an experimental gathering aimed to break down barriers between performers and audiences. Classical arts often drew a narrow, repeat crowd with little crossover between genres. Art Baithak evolved to build new audiences, enhance accessibility by taking performances to neighbourhoods, like a “Swiggy-Zomato for art”, and prioritise intimacy. Sitting close in shared spaces creates profound resonance absent in large venues. Amid screen-dominated lives, these evenings encourage unplugging to reconnect humanly, ending with informal tea, coffee, and chats that spark meaningful artist-audience exchanges.

How many baithaks have you organised so far, and what has been the response?

In four years, over 15 Art Baithaks have been hosted, featuring more than 100 artists and engaging over 1,200 people in Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore. The response has been enthusiastic and growing. Early editions stayed at fixed venues like Sumeet Nagdev’s academy and Kalari Warriors. Later seasons embraced experimentation, furniture stores, acting studios, open-air gardens by the sea, and annual collaborations with The Steps in Bandra, which introduce fresh communities. This venue's fluidity keeps experiences vibrant, draws diverse crowds, and sustains momentum.


What kinds of art forms do you showcase?

Art Baithak is proudly multidisciplinary, blending classical, folk, and contemporary expressions. Dance highlights include luminaries like Madhu Natraj, Sanjukta Wagh, and Amrita Lahiri. Music spans Sufi, ghazals, retro, and folk, with talents such as Vasuda Sharma and Ronkini Gupta. Poetry by Arundhati Subramaniam, theatre from groups like Gillo Repertory, experimental tutting, storytelling, and instrumental pieces have also featured. The aim is layered evenings that nudge audiences beyond comfort zones toward broader appreciation.

What are your future plans through the Foundation?

Backed by the Leela Ghosh Foundation, Art Baithak is expanding beyond Mumbai to cultivate thriving arts ecosystems nationwide. Successful launches in Pune and Bangalore have showcased diverse performances, including Dashavatar, tawaif-inspired musical storytelling, and voice artistry by Meghana Erande. The vision includes partnering with local artists, building micro-communities of enthusiasts, and exploring franchise models while preserving intimacy and connection. Art Baithak isn’t just about shows; it’s about nurturing shared, meaningful experiences that feel rare today. This journey is just beginning, and the possibilities excite the team immensely.