In the enchanting village of Bandora, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Goa, resides an extraordinary artist whose creative endeavours have captured the hearts of many. Anant S. Kamat Bambolkar, lovingly known as Kalanand, has embarked on a remarkable journey of self-expression, blending the realms of visual and performing arts to showcase the vibrant culture and heritage of his beloved Goa.
From an early age, Kalanand’s artistic inclinations were nurtured under the watchful eye of his father, Shridhar Bambolkar, a renowned artist and theatre personality. Surrounded by the wonders of creativity, he found himself naturally drawn to the world of art. It was during his childhood that Kalanand’s passion for the arts began to blossom, whether through playful interactions with colours or the exhilarating experience of attending drama rehearsals.
With a strong foundation in applied arts and advanced computer arts, Kalanand’s artistic style has been shaped by a fusion of disciplines. After completing his Bachelor’s in Fine Arts from the esteemed Goa College of Art, he pursued a Post-Graduation Diploma in Mumbai, where he honed his skills in graphic design and embraced the latest trends in the industry and corporate world.
Kalanand’s artistic aspirations were further fueled by numerous accolades during his school days, where he triumphed in over forty individual prizes in Child Art Competitions at state and national levels. These early successes served as a catalyst, propelling him towards a dedicated career in the arts, leaving no room for doubt or alternative paths.
In 2012, a significant milestone in Kalanand’s artistic journey arrived when he received an award in the Artist category for photography at the State Art Competition organized by Kala Academy. This recognition bolstered his confidence and propelled him to delve deeper into the realm of photography, enabling him to capture the world from unique perspectives.
Not content with excelling in one form of artistic expression, Kalanand ventured into the realm of performing arts. Directing and performing in various one-act plays, he discovered a harmonious balance between his passion for visual and performing arts. His keen eye as a visual artist infused his directorial work with a sense of colour, composition, and form, creating immersive experiences for audiences.
As a staunch advocate for preserving Goa’s cultural heritage, Kalanand’s contributions to Goan folk theatre have been widely recognized and honoured with awards. One of his notable achievements includes directing a play based on the Zagor, a fading folk form that is on the brink of extinction. Through this remarkable theatrical piece, Kalanand and his team sought to revive and preserve this precious element of Goan culture, captivating audiences and shedding light on the beauty of their heritage.
Kalanand’s artistic prowess extends beyond the stage and canvas. He has exhibited his artwork in solo and group exhibitions, each one unveiling a chapter of his artistic exploration. His most memorable exhibition, held at the prestigious Kala Academy, showcased paintings and photography inspired by his longing for his homeland, evoking a profound sense of nostalgia and belonging.
Embracing diverse opportunities, Kalanand has lent his skills to the International Film Festival of India, where he showcased his talents as a photographer and illustrator. These experiences have allowed him to stay at the forefront of artistic trends, constantly expanding his horizons and enriching his creative palette.
An active member of the renowned Antruj Lalitak theatre group, Kalanand has cultivated a deeper understanding of theatre through his involvement. From managing backstage operations to acting, light designing, and set design, he has embraced every aspect of the theatrical world. The guidance and mentorship of esteemed theatre artists within the group have played a pivotal role in his artistic growth and have opened doors to unique opportunities.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Kalanand has dedicated himself to nurturing the creative minds of future artists as an art teacher. He approaches teaching with an open mind, exposing his students to various techniques, mediums, and art forms. By encouraging them to observe, reflect, and find inspiration in everyday life, he instils in them a deep appreciation for the artistic process. Kalanand believes that art is not merely about the final product, but also about the joy of exploration and self-expression.
When asked about his upcoming projects and goals, Kalanand humbly expresses his preference for living in the present, focusing on the here and now. His aim is to remain connected to his roots, allowing the essence of Goa to infuse every stroke of his brush and every act on stage.
As the arts scene in Goa continues to evolve, artists like Kalanand play a crucial role in shaping and nurturing the artistic community. Goa has become a hub for art festivals and events that celebrate a diverse range of creative expressions. The fusion of traditional, contemporary, and experimental art forms, combined with the natural splendour and cultural richness of the state, entices artists and enthusiasts alike.
To aspiring artists and performers seeking to make their mark in the world of art and theatre, Kalanand offers a piece of timeless advice. He urges them to stay connected to their love for creating and performing, to relish the artistic journey with all its highs and lows, and to find joy in the process of exploration and growth.
For Kalanand, being a Goan artist is a profound source of inspiration. He draws from the rich cultural heritage that Goa embodies, incorporating elements of its landscapes, traditions, and vibrant colours into his artistic expression. The coastal beauty, palm-fringed beaches, and the cultural diversity of Goa find their way onto his canvas, creating a visual symphony that resonates with both locals and visitors alike.
While wrapping up this story of this captivating artist, Anant S. Kamat Bambolkar, we eagerly await his future endeavours, fully aware that his artistic journey will continue to enrich the cultural tapestry of Goa. Through his unwavering passion, Kalanand continues to bring to life the essence of Goa, weaving stories that celebrate this enchanting land’s past, present, and future.
