THE FRENCH EMBASSY PARTNERS WITH THE BRIJ TO BUILD THE INDIAN CULTURAL LEADERS OF TOMORROW
Apply before May 5, 2026, midnight IST
THE BRIJ Cultural Leaders Fellowship, is releasing its 1st edition of a 9 month programme for mid-career practitioners and cross-sector professionals working within the cultural landscape across India.
Delivered by Serendipity Arts and supported by French Institute in India/French Embassy, it aims at bringing together 10 to 15 fellows to engage in a shared process of reflection, dialogue, and inquiry.
This unique programme benefits from a FEF grant allocated by the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs as a way to encourage capacity building in the field of culture. More generally, France has made the development of the creative economy a strategic priority, mapping key players and platforms worldwide, such as Serendipity Arts.
Key dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: May 5, 2026, midnight IST
- Final Selections Announced: May 20, 2026
- Fellowship Begins: June 20, 2026
About the Programme Structure
Across three phases, spanning from June 2026 to March 2027, participants will move through a gradual deepening of their practice and perspective:
June-July 2026
Opens with a six-day residential in Goa on 20 June. Fellows will focus on personal reflection, self-awareness, research orientation, and goal setting. Continues online through July.
August-October 2026
Delivered virtually across three months. Each month features two themed sessions, followed by lively open discussions. Fellows prepare questions in advance, shaping each session from their own position.
November 2026-March 2027
The final phase focuses on leadership, the Festival experience, and publicly articulating each fellow’s question. Fellows refine their vision and build the confidence, rigor, and vocabulary to share it around. They will then take part in a second residency in Goa during the Serendipity Arts Festival. Closes with a written research proposal explaining their question and its significance.
Who should apply
- Experience: 7 or more years of active practice
- Nationality: Indian Nationals, based in India
- Availability: Available for both meetings in Goa
- Sector: Multiple fields, with a genuine connection to the cultural sector
- Practice & support: Independent or institutional practice welcome, individual bursaries available.
