With architect Rajiv Saini (Founder, Rajiv Saini & Associates), philanthropist & entrepreneur Tarini Jindal Handa (Founder, æquō Gallery) and gallerist Loïc Le Gaillard (Co-Founder, Carpenters Workshop Gallery), we unpack how the DNA of their organisations delve deeper into local artisanal growth and advocate for their recognition, as art and design converge. Megha Kapoor (Independent Editor & Creative Director) moderates this conversation.
Generously supported by JSW, the IAF 2025 Talks Series, Growing Focus, curated by independent researcher and curator Shaleen Wadhwana, examines the increasing prominence of South Asia within contemporary art, design and culture. The series highlights the efforts of People of the Global Majority — comprising more than 80 per cent of the world’s population, with roots in Indigenous, African, Asian and Latin American cultures — who are asserting their presence across arts and cultural ecosystems. Amid the ongoing decentering of dominant ‘Global North’ narratives, it frames this moment not merely as a response to decolonisation but as landmark, historic self-determination. We explore this impact for audiences today and every day.
Rajiv Saini : The founder of Rajiv Saini and Associates (RSA), Rajiv began his design career in 1995. His studio is known for blending modern design with careful craftsmanship, focusing mainly on residential and hospitality projects. Despite his background in computer science engineering, Rajiv pursued his passion for design and established RSA, which has since gained recognition not only in India but also internationally, with projects spanning Singapore, Dubai, Thailand, and the UK
Tarini Jindal Handa: Coming from a lineage of entrepreneurs and patrons of the arts, Tarini Jindal Handa aims to breathe new life into her country’s craftsmanship. In this, she follows in the footsteps of her grandmother, who created the Kanoria Centre of Arts, the first artist’s residency in India, and her mother, the founder of Art Magazine of India. Her studies in fashion marketing at the American University of London led Tarini Jindal Handa to open India’s first multi-brand fashion store, Muse. However, her interest in cultural preservation, craftsmanship, and innovative design led her to change direction. Through æquō, Tarini Jindal Handa aims to promote economic and social development for artisans in India. Alongside her involvement in the creative platform æquō, she leads real estate projects through her JSW Realty venture.
Loïc Le Gaillard: Loïc Le Gaillard is the co-founder of the Carpenters Workshop Gallery, which he started with his childhood friend Julien Lombrail in 2006. The gallery now has locations in Paris, New York, and San Francisco.
Megha Kapoor: Megha Kapoor, an acclaimed editor, creative director, and stylist, is known for her timeless aesthetic and commitment to diversity. As former Vogue India editor, she drove the publication’s global expansion while championing Indian creativity. Born in India and raised in New Zealand, she brings a global perspective shaped by her cultural heritage.
