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Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art
Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art
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| Established | 1999 |
| Founder | Suman Saini |
| Type | Art School • National Examination Board |
| Headquarters | Chandigarh, India |
| Region served | 22 states across India |
| Key people | Dr. Koushik Sinha Dr. Praveen Sinha |
| Students | 150,000+ |
| Faculty | 52 |
| Website | Official website |
Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art is an Indian art school and national-level art and culture examination board founded in 1999 by educator Suman Saini in Chandigarh, India. Established to preserve and promote Indian art traditions among young learners, the institution has expanded into a multi-state network under the leadership of Dr. Koushik Sinha and Dr. Praveen Sinha.
The organisation operates across 22 Indian states, offering 32 creative curriculums, and has taught more than 150,000 students through over 3,500 registered centres. The school functions under the Chhayakriti Pratibha Trust and is recognised for its role in promoting art education, cultural literacy, and artistic excellence.
History
The foundation of Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art was laid in 1999 by art teacher Suman Saini, who envisioned a platform that would keep Indian artistic heritage alive for coming generations. Committed to nurturing young creators, she later entrusted the institution to her daughter and son-in-law.
A major milestone arrived with the entry of Dr. Koushik Sinha, who moved from Calcutta (Kolkata) to Chandigarh with a vision to build a dedicated art school. Starting with just two students, he navigated financial, social, and infrastructural challenges, supported significantly by his father-in-law, Jagdish Saini.
Over the next decade, the institution expanded from a small training centre into a structured trust offering educational programmes, cultural competitions, and social initiatives promoting art awareness.
Expansion as a National Examination Board
From 2011 onwards, the school grew into a nationwide examination body, known for:
- 150,000+ enrolled students
- 3,500+ registered centres across India
- teaching staff of 52 trained faculty members
- presence in 22 states
The board conducts structured examinations, certification programmes, and talent assessments in multiple art and cultural disciplines. It plays a significant role in shaping young artists and creators across India’s metropolitan and rural regions.
Academic Programs and Curriculums
The institution offers 32 diverse curriculums aligned with contemporary and traditional artistic practices. These include:
- Singing
- Dancing
- Yoga
- Painting
- Recitation and storytelling
- Fine arts and craft studies
- Cultural performance programmes
- Creative skill development
The curriculum emphasises originality, creative freedom, and holistic artistic expression, aiming to build creators rather than copyists.
Achievements
Students of the school have represented their work at district, state, national, and international platforms. Seven students have successfully held independent solo exhibitions—an achievement uncommon among young artists.
Founder-director Dr. Koushik Sinha has received:
- State Art Award
- Best Artist Award
- Best Teacher Award from former Governor Mr. Jacob
The organisation and its leaders are frequently invited as judges, mentors, and chief guests at cultural and educational events across India.
Key People
Dr. Koushik Sinha
A visionary educator, Dr. Sinha is credited with transforming the school from a small local art centre into one of India’s prominent art examination boards. His contributions span curriculum development, centre expansion, and nationwide outreach initiatives.
Dr. Praveen Sinha
A topper from Panjab University with a Master's degree from Kurukshetra University, she is known for her innovative teaching methods, academic excellence, and leadership in art education.
Kuntal Sinha
Actively involved in outreach, institutional development, promotional activities, and creative programme expansion.
Support and Legacy
Dr. Sinha often acknowledges the support of his extended family—particularly his mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and sister-in-law—in building the institution. Their encouragement played a vital role in the school’s expansion.
The school is widely respected for its values of cultural preservation, quality art education, and community-driven development.
Future Plans
Chandigarh Chhaya School of Art aims to establish art institutions across India and internationally. The trust plans to introduce formal diplomas and degree-level courses in multiple art fields, aligning with the growing demand for structured art education and cultural training in India.