The magics of a delicious dish lies in the mystery of its creation. And yet, people have always sought a way to peer behind the curtain. The Mastery by StoneX festival offers art lovers a chance to do just that. 

The festival will arrive at Ballard Estate this week with a tri-partite exhibition. It features photographs, films, and conversations that unravel the myth behind the craft of masters such as author Ruskin Bond, singer Shubha Mudgal, percussionist V Selvaganesh, artist Krishen Khanna and danseuse Anita Ratnam, among others.

Anita Ratnam strikes a pose at the Delhi edition of the showcase

Designed as a long-form cultural documentation series, the films are part of the project compiled by StoneX, a natural stone/marble venture. The first series opened in 2025 with names such as poet-singer Priya Malik, artists Subodh Kerkar and Benitha Perciyal, and chef Sarah Todd among the featured artistes. 

“The concept was to reach out to artistes across seven artistic forms to try and understand their journey towards mastery,” shares Sushant Pathak, chief marketing officer, StoneX Global, shares. Recorded by filmmaker Mridu Khosla, the series will make its way to online platforms later this year.

A visitor takes in the exhibition. Pics Courtesy/StoneX

From artist Krishen Khanna’s struggle to redefine art or Shubha Mudgal’s challenges to break out of stereotypes, the films capture rare insights. “We have 10 films that will only be part of the Mumbai edition,” Pathak adds.

The three-part showcase serves to act as an immersive experience. The photographic visuals offer an early glimpse of the artistes’ connection with their art. The screening of the films will also be followed by a one-to-one conversation with the artistes. For Mumbaikars, it will be a chance to go along on a magical journey.

On May 8, 6 pm onwards (preview); May 9, 11 am and 2.30 pm
AT IF.BE, Calicut Road, Ballard Estate, Fort. 
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