On a warm evening in Mumbai, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 unveiled an enchanting installation titled Savour the Pause, which quickly became one of the most photographed attractions of the event. Situated at the entrance of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya lawns, this immersive experience aimed to replicate the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. Created by renowned sculptural artist and architect Arzan Khambatta in collaboration with Black Dog Soda, the installation allowed only ten visitors at a time, fostering a sense of intimacy and reflection.
Upon entering the installation, visitors were encouraged to leave their phones behind, allowing the outside world to fade away as they engaged with the art. At the heart of the space stood a striking white sculpture, towering nearly 12 feet high, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling mirrors that amplified its size and created an illusion of endless depth. As soft aquamarine lights danced across the sculpture, changing hues from emerald to cobalt to violet, spectators felt as if they were beneath a shifting Arctic sky.
- Immersive experience — The installation aims to transport visitors into a serene world away from the city's hustle.
- Artistic collaboration — Created in partnership with Black Dog Soda, highlighting the fusion of art and brand.
- Intimate design — Limited to ten visitors, encouraging deeper engagement with the artwork.
The entire experience lasted barely five minutes, yet its impact lingered long after. For many, witnessing the Northern Lights remains a distant dream requiring travel to far-off places with unpredictable weather. However, at the Kala Ghoda Festival, that dream was brought to life without the need for a passport or winter gear. Brinda Miller, Festival Director and Chairperson of the Kala Ghoda Association, described the installation as a necessary pause in a city that rarely slows down, stating, "With Savour the Pause, we wanted people to step into a space where the rush dissolves."
Khambatta faced challenges in designing a sculpture that could hold and reflect light fluidly. Early drafts featured more angular forms, but collaboration with the projection team led to a softer, more organic structure made of glass-reinforced fiber, allowing for dynamic light movement across its surface. As queues stretched across the gardens each night, it became evident that audiences are seeking experiences that transcend mere entertainment; they yearn for a moment of connection and tranquility in their busy lives. For a fleeting moment at Kala Ghoda, the sky felt within reach, inviting visitors to touch the art.
