Today will witness the opening of Saffronart’s fundraiser auction in support of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival’s (KGAF) efforts to restore the Sir David Sassoon Library — a Grade I heritage building — which is possibly the city’s oldest operational library and reading room. The building was constructed in 1870 and was one of the first structures to be built on the Esplanade. Right near Kala Ghoda square, the landmark library is placed in a hub of cultural activity with institutions such as Max Mueller Bhavan, Jehangir Art Gallery, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya within walking distance. Spokespersons from KGAF reveal that the library is closely associated with the annual arts festival, and its garden area has always been a landmark for the festival.

Sudhir Patwardhan’s artwork are part of the auction