Swati Pasari: From Kolkata’s Business Roots to a Global Journey in Spiritual Art

Saurabh Tankha

It is not every day that you get to interact with an artist from the culturally rich city of Kolkata who belongs to a traditional Marwari business family. But such rare journeys do unfold — as they did in the case of Swati Pasari.

Born and brought up in the City of Joy, Swati was originally set on joining her family’s manufacturing business. Art was never part of the plan — not even remotely. But life, as it often does, had other ideas.

From Business Aspirations to Artistic Awakening

“After completing my schooling from Modern High School in Kolkata, I went to Australia to study commerce at Bond University as I wanted to be a part of the family business. The field of art was never in my mind, leave alone taking it up as a profession. In fact, no one in the family understands art. To be honest, you hardly find artistically inclined Marwaris,” she says.

After returning to India, she completed her graduation from University of Calcutta. Yet, during this phase, she encountered something far deeper than career confusion — a sense of emptiness.

“I could not understand who I was and what the purpose of my life was,” she recalls.

Discovering Purpose Through Pranic Healing

At a time when most 20-year-olds are navigating careers and social lives, Swati found herself searching for meaning. It was then that pranic healing entered her life — a turning point that would redefine her path.

“Led by one of my cousin brothers, I explored pranic healing, and it completely changed my life. As I was not in a great frame of mind, I started painting. As a child, I used to make cards and albums for birthdays and anniversaries — now I simply moved that creativity onto canvas,” shares the self-taught artist.

What began as a hobby soon evolved into something far more significant.

First Exhibition and a Defining Breakthrough

As her collection of canvases grew, so did encouragement from those around her. People began urging her to showcase her work publicly.

“So I thought, why not? In August 2008, I held my maiden exhibition at Genesis Art Gallery in Kolkata. And believe me, I couldn’t believe it when I was sold out. That gave my confidence a big boost,” she says.

For Swati, art became more than expression — it became purpose. “My basic approach has been to spread positivity, happiness, and joy through my art.”

Overcoming Family Resistance and Finding Support

However, the journey was not without its challenges — particularly from a family rooted in business traditions.

“No one except my grandfather, late Shri Nand Lal Pasari, supported me. It is only because of him that I have been able to achieve what I have. He is my inspiration,” she says.

Today, Swati is not just a painter but also a sculptor who believes that art is a medium of emotional and spiritual upliftment. “It is far beyond just a painting or a sculpture,” she adds.

A Global Artistic Journey

With time, opportunities began to flow. Swati showcased her work across major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.

Her journey soon went global, with exhibitions in Tokyo, Jakarta, London, Miami, and Dubai.

“Galleries have been a big support, but your work needs to stand out. The first 15 years are crucial in an artist’s life. You need to work hard and ensure your art is unique — no one would spend lakhs on something ordinary,” she explains.

Spiritual Roots and Philanthropy

An ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, much like her grandfather, Swati frequently visits Varanasi, especially the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

“I feel immense power there,” she says.

Beyond art, she is also deeply involved in social work. She is part of the management committee of Hindu Sewa Sadan Charitable Hospital, and a significant portion of her art proceeds is directed towards supporting the institution.

“The idea is to help others and bring happiness into their lives as well,” she adds.

Art as an Expression of Inner Peace

Swati believes her work is a direct reflection of her inner world.

“When I paint, I feel peace, beauty, serenity, and calmness. My paintings manifest these emotions,” she says.

Her sculptures — often inspired by Hindu deities — are notably faceless, a concept rooted in spirituality.

“The absence of eyes, nose, or ears signifies that God does not need sensory organs to exist, nor do we need them to experience Him. God is within and around us. For me, God is one — a form of life that I celebrate.”

This philosophy is reflected in her vibrant creations, often filled with colour, music, and movement.

“When it comes to celebration, there have to be colours and vibrancy. You will often find people dancing and playing instruments in my works — because that, to me, is what life is all about,” Swati shares.