Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art: A Legacy of Creativity, Courage, and Cultural Revival

In a world where traditional art is often overshadowed by modern distractions, Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art stands as a remarkable symbol of passion, perseverance, and cultural preservation. Founded in 1999 by Suman Saini, an art teacher determined to keep India’s artistic heritage alive, the institution began as a heartfelt mission—to ensure that the coming generations never drift away from the soul of Indian art.

That mission soon found its strongest custodians: her daughter and son-in-law, Dr. Koushik Sinha, the man who transformed a dream into a thriving art movement.

A Journey Born From Courage

Dr. Koushik Sinha left Calcutta for Chandigarh with little money but boundless determination. All he carried was a belief in himself and a dream larger than his circumstances. Chandigarh welcomed him with its warmth, discipline, and progressive spirit—fueling his ambition to create something meaningful.

But the beginning wasn’t easy. Doors closed. Calls went unanswered. Opportunities slipped away.

Yet, as the saying goes, those who help themselves are helped by the Creator. With unshakable resilience, Dr. Sinha kept going. And after many setbacks, his efforts bore fruit—he began the school with just two students.

Those two students became the foundation of a legacy that now spans more than two decades.

A Family’s Strength, A Community’s Pride

Behind every great institution lies a pillar of support. For Dr. Sinha, that pillar was his father-in-law, Mr. Jagdish Saini, whose encouragement became the backbone of Chhaya School of Art. Alongside him, his wife Dr. Praveen Sinha—an exceptional artist, topper of Punjab University, and master’s graduate from Kurukshetra—became the creative force who shaped the school’s unique teaching techniques. She worked day and night, offering not only her talent but her unwavering strength. Her contribution is one of the key reasons Chhaya School of Art stands where it does today.

Their daughter, Miss Ritisha Sinha, also dedicated himself to expanding the school’s reach and vision. The Sinha family’s collective effort, supported by their extended family and blessed by their parents, transformed a small art class into a cultural institution.

From a Classroom to a Movement

Over the years, Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art evolved into a respected trust—Chhayakriti Pratibha Trust—and has expanded its footprint across the nation.

Today:

• The Examination Board operates across 22 states of India

• More than 1,50,000 students have been trained

• Over 3,500 centers are registered nationwide

• 32 different curriculums are offered, including painting, singing, dancing, yoga, and recitation

Seven students have already hosted their solo art exhibitions, igniting inspiration for countless young artists. Students have competed at state, national, and international levels, carrying forward the school’s legacy of excellence.

Celebrating Excellence

Dr. Koushik Sinha has earned prestigious recognitions, including:

• State Award

• Best Artist Award

• Best Teacher Award presented by former Governor Mr. Jacob

• Both Mr. and Mrs. Sinha have served as judges and chief guests at multiple competitions and cultural events—reflecting the institution’s reputation and contribution to the artistic community.

  
  

A Vision for the Future

Chhaya School of Art believes that students should not become copyists—but creators. This philosophy drives their mission. Looking ahead, the Trust plans to establish institutions across India and abroad, introducing examinations that offer diplomas and degrees in arts. Their goal is to elevate Indian art to a global level and build a new generation of artists who think independently and create fearlessly.

From a dream born in 1999 to an internationally recognised examination board by 2025, Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art is not just a school—it is a movement. A movement of creativity.A movement of dedication.A movement of preserving India’s artistic soul. And it all began with a teacher’s vision, a young man’s courage, and a family’s collective resolve to give art the place it deserves.