Munish Sood
Mandi
In a remarkable celebration of art, resilience, and lifelong passion, a solo painting exhibition titled “Divine Nature” by renowned surgeon-turned-artist Dr. Om Mahendru is set to be inaugurated at the iconic Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery from May 1 to May 3, 2026.
Organised under the aegis of the International Roerich Memorial Trust, the exhibition is part of the larger cultural festival themed “The Heart Sends a Message to the Heart,” inspired by the philosophy of Nicholas Roerich, symbolising Indo-Russian cultural harmony.
A Surgeon’s Artistic Rebirth
Dr. Mahendru’s journey into the world of art is as inspiring as it is unconventional. A distinguished surgeon who served across Himachal Pradesh and retired in 2005, he has performed countless life-saving surgeries during his medical career. Even post-retirement, he continued serving in various institutions, including at IIT Mandi during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It was during this challenging period that a profound transformation took place. Witnessing the global crisis, Dr. Mahendru found himself drawn back to a forgotten passion—painting. What began as a deeply personal expression soon evolved into a prolific artistic pursuit.
“During COVID, I visualised the crisis as a ship struggling through violent waves in a dark ocean,” Dr. Mahendru recalled in an earlier interaction. “That image compelled me to pick up the brush.”
Defying Age, Redefining Passion
Now in his mid-70s, Dr. Mahendru has created over 150 artworks, primarily on acrylic sheets, exploring themes of nature, emotion, and human resilience. His works reflect a unique transition—from the precision of surgical instruments to the fluidity of colours and imagination.
Interestingly, his artistic inclination dates back to his school days, but the demands of the medical profession kept it dormant for decades. Today, his art stands as a testament to the idea that creativity knows no age.
From Medical Conferences to Art Galleries
Dr. Mahendru first showcased his work during a state-level conference of the Indian Medical Association in Mandi, where he exhibited 101 paintings. The response was overwhelming, with fellow doctors expressing astonishment at his artistic depth.
His artwork has also gained literary recognition, with one of his paintings featured on the cover of a book by noted Himachali author Dr. Ganga Ram Raji.
Exhibition Highlights
The upcoming exhibition “Divine Nature” will present a curated collection of his works, reflecting his journey “from surgical knife to variants of nature.” It will be inaugurated as part of a three-day cultural programme that includes art exhibitions, cultural performances, and international collaborations.
The event is expected to draw art lovers, medical professionals, and cultural enthusiasts from across the region and beyond.
A Message Beyond Medicine
Through this exhibition, Dr. Mahendru hopes to inspire others—especially professionals—to rediscover their hidden passions.
“A doctor is not limited to healing bodies; there is an artist within as well,” he believes. “One should never suppress inner desires.”
As the serene hills of Naggar prepare to host this unique confluence of art and legacy, Dr. Mahendru’s story stands as a powerful reminder: it is never too late to begin again.
