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Creative India 2035: Harshal Duddalwar on Regional Culture and Global Relevance

opinion-review · 2026-10-01

In an interview featured in Issue 72 of Creative Gaga, designer Harshal Duddalwar shares insights on the prospects of India's creative sector. He asserts that Indian artists can maintain local roots while achieving global significance. Observing from New York, he appreciates India's abundant visual and cultural richness. Duddalwar notes the challenge in defining the Indian creative landscape, as designers frequently take on various roles. He highlights the emergence of innovative projects from both established firms and smaller studios, emphasizing unique spaces. A notable shift among younger creatives is their newfound ability to showcase independently, embracing their heritage unlike previous generations. He points out that leading talents at companies like Microsoft and The New York Times excel in uncertainty and prioritize collaboration.

Key facts

  • Harshal Duddalwar is a designer who has worked in India and New York.
  • He believes Indian creatives can be both locally rooted and globally relevant.
  • Younger Indian creatives are inspired by regional cultures, local languages, and personal stories.
  • Increased access allows young designers to showcase work independently, leading to decentralized inspiration.
  • Specific personal stories from Chandrapur, Kochi, Shillong, and Lucknow create connections.
  • The strongest creatives maintain identity while engaging with their environment and thrive in ambiguity.
  • Curiosity, judgment, adaptability, and meaningful collaboration are enduring qualities.
  • The interview appears in Issue 72 of Creative Gaga’s print edition.

Entities

Artists

  • Harshal Duddalwar

Institutions

  • Creative Gaga
  • Microsoft
  • Pentagram
  • The New York Times
  • Astronaut Monastery

Locations

  • India
  • New York
  • United States
  • Chandrapur
  • Kochi
  • Shillong
  • Lucknow

Sources