Mumbai Police Inspector Finds Solace in Art at Sahayog Exhibition
At 3:30 in the afternoon, police inspector Mousami Subhash Patil answers the phone, her voice still heavy with sleep. "I had a night shift," says the cyber cop, continuing the call anyway. Time, in her demanding line of work, is rarely her own. Yet, she insists on carving some out for a deeply personal pursuit.
Art as a Decompression Tool
Late at night or in the quiet of early morning—when duty finally loosens its grip—Patil turns to her paintbrush. What began as a personal ritual has evolved into a vital way to decompress from the intensity of high-stakes cases, including the notable 2022 Bulli Bai investigation. "Everyone needs a hobby outside of work," she remarks, echoing the wisdom of noted Marathi writer P L Deshpande. Until recently, few of her colleagues were even aware of her artistic side.
They discovered it at the 10th edition of the Sahayog Contemporary Art Exhibition, inaugurated on March 27 at the Kaladalan Art Gallery in Prabhadevi. Curated by artist Satyendra Rane, this exhibition was conceived as a platform for emerging artists but brings together an unusual mix this year: established names alongside members of the police, civil services, and legal fraternity.
A Platform with Purpose
Organized in association with the Mumbai Police Welfare Association, the exhibition carries an added layer of purpose. A portion of the proceeds is dedicated to supporting police personnel. "Given the demanding nature of their service, it was important for us to acknowledge and support their contribution to society. This initiative allows art to directly contribute to their welfare," explains Rane. What struck him most, he adds, was the sincerity of expression among the participants. "It was inspiring to see how naturally they connected with art."
Among the exhibitors is retired assistant commissioner of police-turned-advocate Shailendra Gaikwad, whose canvas captures the serene stillness of village life. Inspired by Chandamama comics during his childhood, Gaikwad returned to painting more seriously after retirement. "My daughter, Purva, is also an advocate. She too paints," he shares. Having sold two works at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, Gaikwad hopes for a similar positive response at this show. "I've been told I need more practice," says the 65-year-old, "but it brings me immense joy."
Beyond Roles: The Human Connection
That sense of unfiltered, heartfelt expression lies at the very core of the Sahayog exhibition. "Here, an artist is not defined by formal training or profession but by the ability to connect through creativity," emphasizes Rane. "Art is not just about aesthetics; it is fundamentally about empathy and making a tangible impact."
Across the gallery, the diverse works—ranging from abstract compositions and landscapes to mixed media pieces—carry distinct traces of discipline meeting imagination. "There have been days involving emotionally challenging cases," Patil reflects thoughtfully. "Sitting down with a canvas has helped me process those complex emotions and regain my inner balance, free from distractions."
One of her recent creations, titled 'Spiral of Colourful Soul', was painted on Gudi Padwa and draws inspiration from "vibrant emotions and inner thoughts." Another piece, 'The Golden Awakening', is similarly shaped by instinct and lived experience. "There is something profoundly moving about seeing a police officer, an advocate, or a civil servant express themselves so openly on canvas," observes Rane. "It serves as a powerful reminder that beyond our professional roles and uniforms, we are all simply human."
The 10th Sahayog Contemporary Art Exhibition will be on display at the Kaladalan Art Gallery in Prabhadevi until April 2.
