Jaipur Design Week 2026 Kicks Off at JKLU, Transforming Campus into a Hub of Global Innovation and Traditional Craft

Jaipur, April 3, 2026: JK Lakshmipat University (JKLU) has officially commenced the 2026 edition of Jaipur Design Week (JDW), an immersive forum running from April 3rd to April 11th. Under the theme "Make it Max," the campus has transformed into a living laboratory where students, practitioners, and educators are actively engaging in design through rigorous dialogue and experimentation.
The week opened with a high-profile keynote and workshop by multi-award-winning animator Suresh Eriyat, who shared insights from his illustrious career with design students. Alongside this, celebrated artist Abhijit Paul (Lallon) is engaging local school children in hands-on creative activities, while Microsoft Senior UX Designer Bindiya Mutum addressed essential principles of visual communication. The opening day will conclude with a unique cultural twist as designer Chandrashekhar Bheda presents his stand-up comedy set, "Bheda Fry."
Dr. Vijaysekhar Chellaboina, Vice Chancellor of JKLU, said, "Jaipur Design Week 2026 is a testament to our commitment to multidisciplinary learning. As the event unfolds, we are witnessing a vibrant confluence of global industry leaders and young innovators. We are not just teaching design, we are fostering a culture where creativity drives real-world economic and social impact."
The program continues to build momentum with a blend of academic and social inquiry. Upcoming highlights include the launch of Ashoke Chatterjee’s book on the Jawaja project at the Rajasthan International Centre, focusing on the intersection of design and artisan welfare. The "ThoughtSpot" series will bring together an exceptional lineup of speakers, including Tanu Sinha, Head of Design at PepsiCo India, along with award-winning designers Paul Sandip, Suhasini Paul, and Gajesh Mitkari, who will share perspectives on narratives and innovation shaping the global design landscape.
"With 'Make it Max,' we are challenging our students to push beyond conventional thinking. This week is a dynamic laboratory where traditional heritage meets modern UX and industrial design, preparing our graduates to lead with empathy and innovation," said A. Balasubramaniam, Director, Institute of Design, JKLU.
As the week progresses, JDW will open its doors to the broader community through "Open Studios," a five-day series of immersive electives. Led by eminent professionals such as Dadi Pudumjee, Margie Sastry, and Radhika Gupta, these workshops will offer specialized training in puppetry, brand design, and business strategy.
The event will culminate in a deep exploration of Indian aesthetics by Ayush Kasliwal, alongside professional sessions with Sumit Baruah and Sudebi Thakurata. The grand finale will honor Mubassirah Khatri as the "Emerging Designer of the Year," celebrating her groundbreaking work in Ajrakh and her role as a trailblazer for women in traditional craft.
Jaipur Design Week 2026 is now in full swing, a call to action for visionaries to bridge heritage with fearless innovation. JK Lakshmipat University invites participants and visitors alike to experience how design can serve as a powerful force for global change.