
Shekhawat attends mural dedication with Spain’s President Pedro Sánchez in New Delhi
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat joined Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for the dedication of a collaborative mural at the Lodhi Art District in New Delhi, marking a vibrant moment in India–Spain cultural diplomacy.
The mural, created under the Street Art Project, was jointly painted by renowned Spanish street artist Suso-33 — born Jesús Manuel Pinto Gracia — along with two young Indian artists, Tarini Sethi and Ishan Bharat. The artwork symbolizes growing artistic collaboration between the two nations as they celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations.
Sharing details of the event on social media, Shekhawat highlighted the strengthening cultural partnership between India and Spain, noting that the current year is being observed as the Dual Year of Culture, Tourism and AI. He emphasized that cultural exchanges are playing a central role in deepening bilateral ties.
Suso-33 is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in graffiti and street art. Over the years, he has expanded his creative practice into action painting, installation art, video art, performance, and set design. His participation in the Delhi mural project reflects the global character of the initiative and India’s expanding engagement with international contemporary art.
President Sánchez arrived in New Delhi to participate in the India AI Impact Summit 2026, a major global forum focused on the transformative role of artificial intelligence across governance, industry, and society. During his visit, he also held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House, where both leaders reviewed progress in the India–Spain partnership and explored avenues for cooperation in technology, trade, renewable energy, defense, and innovation.
This marks Sánchez’s second official visit to India. His October 28–29, 2024, visit had been the first by a Spanish Prime Minister in 18 years, signaling renewed momentum in bilateral engagement.
Shekhawat also pointed to strong people-to-people connections, noting the growing popularity of yoga and Ayurveda in Spain and increasing interest in learning Spanish in India. Initiatives led by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Spain’s role as Country of Focus at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026, and institutions such as Casa de la India in Valladolid continue to reinforce cultural and educational ties.
The mural dedication stands as a symbol of shared creativity and an evolving, multifaceted partnership between India and Spain.