New Delhi, 9 November 2024: Pearl Academy, India’s leading creative design education institution, recently celebrated Design Guru Day at its Delhi (West) Campus in Rajouri Garden. The occasion marked a significant moment for the institution as it honoured India’s first scenographer, Shri Rajeev Sethi, a renowned designer, cultural visionary, and Padma Bhushan awardee, for his extraordinary contributions to Indian art and design.
The event, attended by students, faculty, and industry guests, celebrated the spirit of creativity and excellence that defines both Pearl Academy and the broader design community. Ms Aditi Srivastava, President, Pearl Academy, reflected on the importance of nurturing creativity and innovation in India. “At Pearl Academy, we are proud to be part of a legacy that nurtures the next generation of creative leaders. Our commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and social impact through design aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a self-reliant, sustainable India. Through initiatives like the Tihar Pearl Fashion Laboratory and our ongoing projects, we strive to use design as a tool for empowerment and positive change. Today, we are also honoured to recognise Mr Rajeev Sethi, whose extraordinary contributions to Indian design and cultural preservation exemplify the transformative power of design in bridging tradition with modernity and inspiring lasting impact,” she said.
Shri Rajeev Sethi, Chairman and Founder of the Asian Heritage Foundation, whose work in design and cultural preservation has influenced generations, was felicitated for his significant role in transforming Indian design and art. During his address, Shri Sethi shared insights from his career, offering a glimpse into his design philosophy and the vital role that art and design play in creating sustainable, culturally rich identities. He emphasised the importance of design in bridging tradition and modernity, calling for a deeper commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage while embracing contemporary creative practices.
“Students are the leaders of tomorrow, and it is essential that they are equipped with a deep understanding of our rich cultural heritage and ethical foundation,” said Shri Rajeev Sethi. “I applaud Pearl Academy for bringing together industry experts who can empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate a complex future. It is imperative that educational institutions like Pearl Academy encourage students to recognise, preserve, and celebrate our traditions rather than simply replicating foreign trends. Technology should serve as a tool for innovation rooted in originality—not a vehicle for imitating the West. Let us inspire our youth to reintroduce and reposition our culture in meaningful ways.”
An engaging Q&A session followed, where Shri Rajeev Sethi interacted with students, sharing his thoughts on the future of design and its impact on cultural identities.
As part of the celebrations, outstanding students from Pearl Academy were recognised for their academic achievements and innovative contributions to the field of design. Awards were presented to 10 high school students from Modern Barakhamba, Bluebells School, and others for their work in the Academy’s workshops, as well as to 7 undergraduate and 2 postgraduate students from Pearl Academy for exceptional accomplishments in design. Additionally, 5 faculty members were honoured for their outstanding contributions to design education, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
A highlight of the event was the symbolic planting of a Banyan tree by Shri Rajeev Sethi on the campus grounds. The Banyan tree, known for its resilience and wisdom, was chosen as a powerful symbol of growth, knowledge, and sustainability—values that are central to both the institution’s educational philosophy and the broader design community.
The event was a fitting tribute to Shri Sethi’s legacy and served as a reminder of the power of design to shape the future of India’s creative industries.
Pearl Academy continues to lead in fostering creativity, innovation, and sustainable development, staying true to its mission of empowering the next generation of designers and positioning India as a global hub for knowledge, creativity, and cultural expression.
About Pearl Academy:
Pearl Academy, a unit of the Creative Arts Education Society (CAES), is India’s leading creative education institution as per industry surveys by ASSOCHAM, India Today- MDRA, Outlook-Drshti & I-CARE, The Week- Hansa, Business of Fashion, and The Economic Times. The institution offers 35+ bachelor’s and master’s degree programs besides a range of short-term courses in Fashion Design, Communication Design, Product Design, Textile Design, Fashion Communication, Fashion Styling, Fashion Business, Interior Design, Film, Gaming and more through its state-of-the-art campuses in Delhi-South, Delhi-West, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Since its establishment in 1993, Pearl Academy has evolved into a globally renowned institution of higher learning, placing a strong focus on global exposure, entrepreneurship, technological expertise, and life skills. The institution has been a catalyst for success for its students through its constructive tie-ups with industry bodies, and international universities. This commitment is prominently reflected in its outstanding placement record, consistently exceeding 99% year-on-year. For more information, please visit: www.pearlacademy.com