In Search Of Lost Time

Delhi artist Mohd Israr's painting exhibition captures the spirit and fading beauty of Old Delhi in its spaces, people & architecture

- PANKIL JHAJHRIA

Most people don't go to Old Delhi unless they have a reason. I go without one, just so I can show its charm to them through my paintings," says Delhi artist Mohd Israr. His paintings and sketches are now on display at an exhibition titled 'Galiyon Se Guzarti Nazar' (A Glance through the Lane) at the India International Centre (IIC).

Israr finds beauty in its long-forgotten corners and fading colours of worn-out buildings. For him, a certain sense and look of decay is what adds a peculiar charm to it.

According to the 30-year-old artist, the "legacy" of Old Delhi among many is waning. Hence, to keep the spirit of the area alive, the artist picks old, narrow lanes, workers, rickshaw pullers, and countless electric wires hanging from pole to pole.