The Indian Institute of Management Jammu has unveiled a truly historic and first-of-its-kind initiative, a three-day live painting workshop from 06th to 08th Sept 2025 at IIM Jammu Jagti Campus by the internationally acclaimed Painter Shri Kamlesh K. Gandhi (Shri KK Gandhi), fondly known as the “Nature Man.” The workshop was inaugurated with the first symbolic brushstroke jointly painted by Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, and Shri K.K. Gandhi, marking a rare confluence of art, culture, and academia on campus. As part of IIM Jammu’s 10th Year Celebrations, this live painting workshop stands as a symbolic reflection of the Institute’s growth. Each brushstroke mirrors values of creativity, resilience, imagination, harmony, and innovation that define its academic journey.

Shri K.K. Gandhi, the internationally acclaimed painter, emphasized that the central objective of this unique initiative is to forge a profound and meaningful connection between the students and the world of art. Through this immersive experience, students will engage directly with him in what promises to be an inspiring Painting Talent Hunt. Over the course of this three-day live workshop, participants will not only observe and interact but also learn the nuances of artistic expression, creativity, and imagination. The artworks created during this period will become part of a permanent collection, destined to grace the IIM Jammu campus and stand as a testament to the confluence of talent, vision, and learning.  He expressed his immense joy and satisfaction in being welcomed to the IIM Jammu campus and thanked Prof. B. S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, for coming up with such a unique initiative, noting that such interactions celebrate the spirit of creativity and the transformative power of art in education.

On this momentous occasion, Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu, stated that the live workshop is much more than an artistic display; it represents a dialogue between creativity and education. He remarked that internationally acclaimed Painter Shri K.K. Gandhi’s brushstrokes embody the timeless message of harmony, resilience, and beauty, values that resonate deeply with the ethos of IIM Jammu. He highlighted that hosting this workshop during the Institute’s 10th Year Celebrations symbolizes IIM Jammu’s commitment to holistic growth, where management education is enriched by culture, art, and the power of imagination. He shared that IIM Jammu already offers a performing art in their course module, where theatre and dance are being conducted by Padmashri Shri Balwant Thakur, and includes a painting module to be undertaken by the internationally acclaimed Painter Shri K.K. Gandhi. This initiative, he added, beautifully blends art, culture, and academia, providing students and the IIM Jammu fraternity with a rare opportunity to learn directly from an artist whose work has been showcased both nationally and internationally. 

He emphasized that the vision is not to merely acquire paintings but to encourage students to actively participate and co-create alongside the artist, with their artwork displayed at IIM Jammu. He announced plans to organize a Basoli Art Workshop at IIM Jammu and an International Painting Consortium, a week-long creative journey featuring nationally and internationally renowned painters from across India and the globe. He reiterated that painting is not only a medium to express creativity and soul but also a powerful stress buster that fosters balance and inspiration for all

Over the next three days, the IIM Jammu campus will transform into a living studio, where students and faculty will witness creativity unfolding in real time as Shri K.K. Gandhi paints before their eyes. His art, deeply inspired by the landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, captures the essence of nomadic tribes, towering mountains, flowing rivers, and the eternal harmony between nature and human life. 

For the students of IIM Jammu, this initiative carries profound significance. While management education often focuses on strategy, data, and decision-making, this workshop opens a window to imagination and creativity. By observing the making of art, students imbibe patience, perseverance, and the power of perspective, qualities indispensable for future leaders and entrepreneurs. It reinforces the truth that leadership is not only about efficiency but also about empathy, vision, and the ability to recognize beauty amid complexity. The audience will thus experience a rare spectacle, the birth of a complete artwork before their very eyes, created by a maestro whose canvases serve as soulful reflections of nature and the timeless lives of tribal communities

Born in 1960 in Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Gandhi's journey from entrepreneurship to global recognition as an artist is a testament to passion and perseverance. His work deeply reflects his roots and serves as an inspiration for future generations, urging them to embrace their cultural identities while pursuing excellence. This celebration not only honours his legacy but also reinforces the importance of integrating diverse influences into education and personal development. Through such initiatives, the Institute continues to foster an environment where creativity and cultural appreciation thrive. 

As IIM Jammu continues to foster such meaningful initiatives, it paves the way for a vibrant exchange of ideas that bridges tradition and modernity. Celebrated for his realistic style and purity of expression, he has been conferred the Award of Honour by the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir (2015), named Artist of the Day at the Jaipur International Art Festival (2013), and recognized by the JCK Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages. 

This live painting workshop at IIM Jammu is not just an artistic presentation; it is a celebration of life, nature, and imagination. It marks a landmark moment in IIM Jammu’s journey, weaving together heritage and innovation and leaving behind an indelible impression that will resonate with generations to come.