Pune University Hosts Nature Painting Session; Artists Felicitated, Tree Conservation Drive and Art Exhibition Planned
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Pune, 10th November 2026: Students at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) witnessed an artistic display of nature paintings as internationally recognised professional painter Farukh Nadaf and hobby artist Dilip Mungole created two separate landscape paintings in front of the Adarsh (Aniket) Canteen on the university campus.
The paintings, depicting the natural surroundings from different viewpoints on either side of the road, attracted the attention of students heading for their morning exercise and library visits. Curious to understand the finer aspects of painting, several students spent nearly an hour interacting with the artists. The discussion covered art, nature, environmental conservation, the university’s historical heritage and creativity.
Farukh Nadaf, a professional painter, has received several international, national and state-level awards for his contribution to the field of art. Recognising the artistic contributions of both painters, the Vidyarthi Sangharsh Kruti Samiti, SPPU Unit, felicitated them during the interaction.
Speaking about the importance of art, painter Dilip Mungole said, “Encouraging art is a necessity for society. Regardless of the form of art, it helps shape an individual’s personality and develop creativity within a person.”
During the interaction, students also introduced the artists to several important locations on the university campus. They expressed their intention to organise a tree plantation and conservation drive in the coming months in collaboration with Khopa Foundation and the Vidyarthi Sangharsh Kruti Samiti, SPPU Unit, on the occasion of Environment Day or another suitable event.
The initiative aims to go beyond merely planting trees, with a commitment to ensuring their regular care and maintenance. Farukh Nadaf and Dilip Mungole are also expected to be invited as chief guests for the programme.
Abhishek Shelkar, President of the Vidyarthi Sangharsh Kruti Samiti, SPPU Unit, said, “Along with education, promoting art, culture, environmental conservation and the creative expression of students on the university campus is a social responsibility of the student movement.”
Additionally, the organisers are planning to provide a platform for students interested in painting by organising an art exhibition featuring works by both artists, as well as paintings created by student artists from the university.
