Mumbai, Feb 23: The participation of students from ITM Institute of Design and Media at the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 marked a significant contribution to this year’s thought-provoking theme, “Ahead of the Curve Geometry”. Responding to the festival’s call for innovation and forward-thinking perspectives, the team presented an immersive installation titled “Mumbai’s Tomorrow,” a project that explored the city’s architectural evolution while envisioning its possible futures through the lens of sustainability, technology, and civic responsibility.
Conceptualized as a layered narrative experience, the installation positioned Mumbai as a living, evolving entity shaped by time and collective decision-making. Housed within a single tent, the project combined holographic technology and virtual reality to create a deeply engaging journey through the city’s past, present, and future. The holographic display traced Mumbai’s transformation from its colonial architectural foundations to its rapidly urbanizing present, culminating in a speculative yet research-driven vision of a sustainable and environmentally conscious future. By juxtaposing these phases, the installation encouraged viewers to reflect on the trajectory the city is currently following.
The experience extended into an immersive VR environment where participants encountered two contrasting futures: a utopian Mumbai defined by green infrastructure and renewable energy, and a dystopian scenario shaped by climate crisis and rising sea levels. The realism of the VR experience elicited strong emotional responses, with many visitors describing it as impactful and unforgettable.
“Our students have demonstrated how design can move beyond aesthetics to become a catalyst for awareness and change. ‘Mumbai’s Tomorrow’ reflects the spirit of innovation and responsibility that we nurture at ITM IDM, and we are proud to see their work spark meaningful conversations about the future of our city,” said Ms. Nisha Chanda, Dean & Director, ITM Institute of Design and Media.
This participation stands as a testament to the power of design-led thinking in addressing real-world challenges. Through innovation, immersive storytelling, and meaningful public engagement, “Mumbai’s Tomorrow” not only aligned seamlessly with the festival’s forward-looking theme but also reinforced the role of young designers as active contributors to societal progress. The project underscored a vital message: the future of Mumbai lies in informed choices, collective responsibility, and the courage to imagine and build a better tomorrow.
Admissions for the 2026 batch are now open and begin your journey toward a future in design and innovation.