A Mandala in London: My Heartfelt Journey with the High Commission of India!

Shruti Dugar
Jun 30
3 min read

When I first started creating mandalas as a way to process the chaos of the world around me, I never imagined that one day, my work would travel halfway across the globe and find a permanent home at the High Commission of India in London.

And yet, here we are.‘Darbaar-e-Gul’, a piece that’s incredibly close to my heart, is now part of their permanent Folk & Tribal Art Collection—a humbling honour I’ll carry forever.

From Sketches on Paper to Global Recognition:

This journey didn’t begin in galleries or grand spaces. It began quietly—on my bed, sketchbook in hand, music in the background, and a mind full of patterns. My mandalas were never just designs. They were stories, emotions, architecture, memories, and mindfulness wrapped into lines and circles.

Being selected for this international platform felt like a gentle whisper from the universe saying, “Keep going.” It was more than just an achievement—it was a Mandala in London, representing not just me, but every Indian artist who finds solace and power in intricate line work.

The Nehru Centre in London appreciates the Indian Fork Art Corridor Team for their successful exhibition held from May 26th to 30th, 2025, acknowledging the positive feedback received from guests.

The Story Behind Darbaar-e-Gul

Translating to "The Court of Flowers", this mandala is a celebration of grace, rhythm, and royal stillness. It merges Persian-inspired symmetry with floral abundance—hand-drawn digitally with every petal placed with intention. The palette reflects dusk in a Mughal garden—deep maroons, soft beiges, muted golds, and hints of twilight blues.

What began as a tribute to beauty in detail, now stands framed in a historic space, representing Indian art and emotion on foreign soil.

The London Experience: Mandala in London

While I couldn’t be there physically for the exhibit, the photos, messages, and love that poured in made me feel every bit present. To know that ambassadors, curators, and art lovers from across the world were experiencing my work in such a dignified setting—it's a feeling I’ll never forget.

I also realized something powerful:

Even when we feel small, our work can travel far.Even when we doubt our art, it might be speaking to someone across oceans.

Colorful mandala artwork titled "Darbar-e-Gul" by SD Doodles - Shruti Dugar, featuring intricate floral patterns, elegantly framed and displayed on the wall.

Artists from the UAE proudly showcase their certificates at the felicitation - Darohar: Vidisha Panday Indian Folk Art Exhibition.

Shruti | SD Doodles receives certificates and memorabilia during the Darohar Felicitation event in Dubai

What This Means for SD Doodles

This milestone isn’t just mine. It’s for every artist creating from a place of truth.It’s for every brushstroke made in silence.It’s for every download, every message, every client who believed in my vision.

SD Doodles is no longer just a brand rooted in mandalas—it's a voice. It’s proof that Indian patterns, storytelling, and soul have a place on the global stage.

Visitors admire artwork displayed at the High Commission of India in London, engaging in conversation about the vibrant pieces showcased on the walls.

The Lesson I’ll Always Carry

This experience taught me that patience and authenticity always find their way home. There were years when my art felt unseen—when I questioned if these intricate mandalas meant anything beyond my own healing. But the truth is, every honest creation leaves a mark. You don’t have to shout to be heard; you just have to create with intention. And sometimes, the world will come knocking on your quiet door.

SD Tip: Find the design breakdown here

Thank You, and What’s Next

To those who’ve supported me—whether by commissioning custom work, colouring a mandala page, or simply sharing a post—you are part of this journey.

And this is just the beginning.

More art.

More meaning.