{"id":44776,"date":"2026-06-02T12:29:07","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T12:29:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/?p=44776"},"modified":"2026-06-02T12:30:54","modified_gmt":"2026-06-02T12:30:54","slug":"kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/","title":{"rendered":"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab: Designing Tomorrow, One Idea at a Time"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Design is often described as the bridge between imagination and reality.<\/em> At <strong>Kolkata Design Fest (KDF) \u201926<\/strong>, that bridge became a vibrant space where creativity, innovation, technology, and human stories converged. Organized by <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/ecole-intuit-lab.co.in\/campus\/design-colleges-kolkata\/\">\u00c9cole Intuit Lab x Techno India University<\/a><\/strong>, in collaboration with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.makecalcuttarelevantagain.com\">Make Calcutta Relevant Again<\/a><\/strong>, the two-day festival brought together students, designers, educators, artists, and industry leaders to celebrate design not merely as a profession, but as a way of thinking and shaping the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Through exhibitions, workshops, lively discussions, and creative challenges, KDF \u201926 created an environment where learning felt less like a classroom and more like a journey.<\/strong> Across two inspiring days, participants moved between nostalgia and innovation, exploring <em><strong>Y2K culture<\/strong><\/em>, hands-on making, and the possibilities of AI in design. Along the way, they exchanged ideas, discovered new perspectives, and found the confidence to bring their creative visions to life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"705\" data-id=\"44800\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-1024x705.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-1024x705.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-300x207.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-768x529.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-1536x1058.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-2048x1411.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-450x310.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-780x537.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5578-Enhanced-NR-1600x1102.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"628\" data-id=\"44802\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-1024x628.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44802\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-1024x628.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-300x184.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-768x471.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-1536x942.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-2048x1256.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-450x276.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-780x478.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5597-Enhanced-NR-1600x981.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44826\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44826\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6224-1-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44823\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44823\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6148-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"583\" data-id=\"44818\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-1024x583.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44818\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-1024x583.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-768x437.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-1536x874.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-2048x1165.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-450x256.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-780x444.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6077-1600x910.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44797\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44797\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6537-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 1: Making, Seeing and Dreaming<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first day of Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 unfolded as a celebration of exploration and experimentation at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab. Carrying the theme <em><strong>\u201cA Day of Making, Seeing and Dreaming,\u201d<\/strong><\/em> the day encouraged participants to look beyond conventional approaches to design and immerse themselves in creative discovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The highlight of the day was the grand opening of the <strong>\u201cY2K Fever Dreams\u201d Exhibition<\/strong>, a vibrant showcase of student work inspired by the visual culture, nostalgia, and aesthetics of the early internet era. Through illustrations, graphics, installations, and visual narratives, students reimagined Kolkata through a Y2K lens, blending memories of the past with visions of the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Complementing the exhibition was the much-anticipated <strong>JAMA Hackathon<\/strong>, a unique design challenge that invited participants to create illustrations and graphics inspired by Kolkata and designed for oversized T-shirts. Rooted in the theme of making the city relevant through contemporary visual language, the competition encouraged students to reinterpret the essence of Kolkata through bold, wearable storytelling. The hackathon became a testament to how design can transform everyday experiences into powerful cultural statements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44827\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44827\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6255-1-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44808\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44808\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5945-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44821\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44821\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6096-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44819\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6087-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"578\" data-id=\"44828\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-1024x578.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44828\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-1024x578.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-768x434.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-1536x867.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-2048x1157.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-450x254.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-780x441.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6299-1-1600x904.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The creative energy continued through the workshop <strong>\u201cGlitch in the Realm (Pareidolia Challenge)\u201d<\/strong>, where participants were challenged to find hidden patterns, shapes, and faces in their surroundings. By encouraging students to see beyond the obvious, the session highlighted a fundamental principle of design: meaningful ideas often emerge from careful observation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Later in the day, participants engaged in <strong>\u201cAnalog Automata,\u201d<\/strong> a hands-on workshop focused on creating moving mechanical structures using simple physical materials. In an age dominated by digital tools, the workshop served as a reminder that creativity often begins with making, testing, failing, and trying again. Students sketched, assembled, experimented, and refined their creations, embracing the joy of learning through craftsmanship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The day concluded with an open gallery viewing session, allowing visitors to revisit the exhibition, interact with creators, and reflect on the diverse ideas presented throughout the day. By evening, the festival had already established itself as more than an event &#8211; it had become a space for curiosity, collaboration, and imagination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Day 2: Thinking, Talking and Shaping What\u2019s Next<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If Day One celebrated making, Day Two focused on conversations that shape the future of design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The second day brought together designers, educators, and industry professionals for a series of keynote talks, panel discussions, and interactive workshops exploring the evolving relationship between creativity, technology, and society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The day began with an insightful session by <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/ankit-adi-bhattacharyya-3593b4370\/\">Ankit Bhattacharya<\/a>, President of the Association of Designers of India (ADI)<\/strong>, titled&nbsp;<em>&#8220;Bengal Was Never Just A Place. It Was A Prototype.&#8221;<\/em>&nbsp;Through reflections on Bengal&#8217;s rich cultural and intellectual heritage, he encouraged participants to view the region as an enduring laboratory of ideas, innovation, and experimentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44793\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44793\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6419-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44831\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44831\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6383-1-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44840\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44840\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6621-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44794\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44794\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6463-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"613\" data-id=\"44811\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-1024x613.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44811\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-1024x613.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-300x179.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-768x460.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-1536x919.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-2048x1225.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-450x269.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-780x467.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_5962-1600x957.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"643\" data-id=\"44846\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-1024x643.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44846\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-1024x643.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-768x482.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-1536x964.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-2048x1286.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-450x283.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-780x490.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6729-1600x1005.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most anticipated discussions of the festival followed shortly after: the Fireside Chat on <strong>\u201cAI &amp; Design Jobs\u201d<\/strong> featuring <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/theblackyellowarrow\/\">Rahul Bhattacharya<\/a>, Assistant Dean of Communication Design at UID Gandhinagar<\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/anindyachowdhury\/\">Anindya Bhanja Chowdhury<\/a>, Vice President of ADI Kolkata and Country Lead for IxDF India<\/strong>. Addressing one of the most pressing questions facing creative industries today, the session explored how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the role of designers. Rather than presenting AI as a threat, the speakers encouraged participants to view it as a collaborative tool capable of enhancing creativity, streamlining workflows, and opening new avenues for innovation. Drawing from their experiences in design education, product strategy, and user experience, they highlighted the importance of adaptability, critical thinking, and human-centred creativity in an increasingly AI-driven world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The panel offered a nuanced perspective, emphasizing that while technology continues to reshape workflows, the essence of design remains deeply human. Creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to understand human experiences cannot be automated. Rather than replacing designers, AI is increasingly becoming a collaborator capable of expanding creative possibilities and enhancing innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The conversation naturally extended into the workshop <strong>\u201cDream and Dare &#8211; Journey to Create Your Own AI Tools,\u201d<\/strong> where participants explored the fundamentals of building AI-driven solutions. The session encouraged students to move beyond being passive users of technology and imagine themselves as creators capable of shaping the tools of tomorrow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most engaging sessions of KDF \u201926 was <strong>\u201cDesign Thinking with an AI Co-pilot,\u201d<\/strong> led by <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/shradha-mishra\/?locale=fr\">Shraddha Mishra<\/a>, Founder of The Tribe of Geeks<\/strong>. Through interactive discussions and practical examples, she encouraged participants to view Artificial Intelligence not as a replacement for creativity but as a tool that can enhance it. Her powerful message, <em><strong>\u201cAI is the co-pilot, you are the pilot,\u201d<\/strong><\/em> resonated strongly with the audience, emphasizing that while technology can support the creative process, human imagination, empathy, and decision-making remain at its core. The session&#8217;s interactive nature and relatable insights made it one of the most memorable highlights of the festival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival&#8217;s final session brought together <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/shilpi-chauhan-chakraborty-65702730\/\">Shilpi Chauhan Chakraborty<\/a>, an independent Visual Communication Designer and Academic &amp; Student Activities Lead for the Kolkata Chapter of ADI,<\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/meenal-chaudhary-meenakari-6231287b\/\">Meenal Chaudhary<\/a>, a textile designer, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of the handcrafted textile label Meenakari,<\/strong> for an insightful fireside conversation on the intersection of Fashion Design and UI\/UX Design. Their discussion revealed how seemingly different creative fields are connected through storytelling, aesthetics, functionality, and an understanding of people. By sharing their experiences, the speakers encouraged students to think beyond traditional boundaries and embrace the interdisciplinary nature of modern design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout the day, one message echoed across discussions and workshops alike: the future belongs not to those who fear technology, but to those who learn how to design with it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spotlight on Excellence: JAMA Hackathon Winners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A defining highlight of Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 was the announcement of the winners of the JAMA Hackathon, a challenge that invited participants to reimagine Kolkata through contemporary visual storytelling and design. Over the course of the festival, students poured their creativity, cultural insights, and personal interpretations into their work, resulting in a diverse range of compelling submissions. As anticipation filled the room during the awards ceremony, <strong>Radhika Agarwal<\/strong> was declared the <strong>winner<\/strong>, earning recognition for a design that impressed the jury with its originality and creative vision. <strong>Shreemoyee Dey<\/strong> secured the position of <strong>First Runner-Up<\/strong>, while <strong>Madhuja Chatterjee<\/strong> was named <strong>Second Runner-Up<\/strong>, both receiving praise for their thoughtful concepts and strong visual narratives. The applause that followed was not just for the winners, but for every participant who embraced the challenge of transforming the spirit of Kolkata into meaningful design. Their work reflected the very essence of the festival &#8211; curiosity, experimentation, and the power of creative expression to tell stories that resonate with people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44842\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44842\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6675-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44845\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44845\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6713-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44841\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44841\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6658-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44838\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44838\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6577-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Winner<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"44837\" src=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-44837\" srcset=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-450x300.jpg 450w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-780x520.jpg 780w, https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6561-1-1600x1067.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">2nd Runner-up<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Celebrating a Future Designed by Young Minds<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival concluded with an Awards and Exhibition Ceremony that celebrated the creativity, dedication, and innovation displayed throughout the two days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Addressing the gathering during the closing ceremony, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/meghdutroychowdhury\/\">Prof. Meghdut RoyChowdhury<\/a>, Chief Innovation Officer of Techno India Group and Executive Director of the School of the Future<\/strong>, reflected on the significance of nurturing creative confidence among young designers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>&#8220;Design is not simply about creating objects, interfaces, or experiences. It is about creating possibilities. The future belongs to those who can imagine fearlessly, think critically, and transform ideas into meaningful impact. Festivals like Kolkata Design Fest provide young creators with the opportunity to explore, experiment, and discover their potential.&#8221;<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His words perfectly captured the spirit of the festival &#8211; a belief that creativity thrives when curiosity is encouraged and innovation is given room to grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the curtains fell on Kolkata Design Fest \u201926, participants left with far more than certificates, awards, or workshop experiences. They carried with them new perspectives, meaningful conversations, creative inspiration, and a renewed understanding of the power of design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>From Y2K-inspired dreams and analog experiments to discussions about Artificial Intelligence and the future of creative work, Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 demonstrated that design is not merely about creating what exists today &#8211; it is about imagining what could exist tomorrow.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Design is often described as the bridge between imagination and reality. At Kolkata Design Fest (KDF) \u201926, that bridge became a vibrant space where creativity, innovation, technology, and human stories converged. Organized by \u00c9cole Intuit Lab x Techno India University, in collaboration with Make Calcutta Relevant Again, the two-day festival brought together students, designers, educators, artists, and industry leaders to celebrate design not merely as a profession, but as a way of thinking and shaping the future. Through exhibitions, workshops, lively discussions, and creative challenges, KDF \u201926 created an environment where learning felt less like a classroom and more like a journey. Across two inspiring days, participants moved between nostalgia and innovation, exploring Y2K culture, hands-on making, and the possibilities of AI in design. Along the way, they exchanged ideas, discovered new perspectives, and found the confidence to bring their creative visions to life. Day 1: Making, Seeing and Dreaming The first day of Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 unfolded as a celebration of exploration and experimentation at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab. Carrying the theme \u201cA Day of Making, Seeing and Dreaming,\u201d the day encouraged participants to look beyond conventional approaches to design and immerse themselves in creative discovery. The highlight of the day was the grand opening of the \u201cY2K Fever Dreams\u201d Exhibition, a vibrant showcase of student work inspired by the visual culture, nostalgia, and aesthetics of the early internet era. Through illustrations, graphics, installations, and visual narratives, students reimagined Kolkata through a Y2K lens, blending memories of the past with visions of the future. Complementing the exhibition was the much-anticipated JAMA Hackathon, a unique design challenge that invited participants to create illustrations and graphics inspired by Kolkata and designed for oversized T-shirts. Rooted in the theme of making the city relevant through contemporary visual language, the competition encouraged students to reinterpret the essence of Kolkata through bold, wearable storytelling. The hackathon became a testament to how design can transform everyday experiences into powerful cultural statements. The creative energy continued through the workshop \u201cGlitch in the Realm (Pareidolia Challenge)\u201d, where participants were challenged to find hidden patterns, shapes, and faces in their surroundings. By encouraging students to see beyond the obvious, the session highlighted a fundamental principle of design: meaningful ideas often emerge from careful observation. Later in the day, participants engaged in \u201cAnalog Automata,\u201d a hands-on workshop focused on creating moving mechanical structures using simple physical materials. In an age dominated by digital tools, the workshop served as a reminder that creativity often begins with making, testing, failing, and trying again. Students sketched, assembled, experimented, and refined their creations, embracing the joy of learning through craftsmanship. The day concluded with an open gallery viewing session, allowing visitors to revisit the exhibition, interact with creators, and reflect on the diverse ideas presented throughout the day. By evening, the festival had already established itself as more than an event &#8211; it had become a space for curiosity, collaboration, and imagination. Day 2: Thinking, Talking and Shaping What\u2019s Next If Day One celebrated making, Day Two focused on conversations that shape the future of design. The second day brought together designers, educators, and industry professionals for a series of keynote talks, panel discussions, and interactive workshops exploring the evolving relationship between creativity, technology, and society. The day began with an insightful session by Ankit Bhattacharya, President of the Association of Designers of India (ADI), titled&nbsp;&#8220;Bengal Was Never Just A Place. It Was A Prototype.&#8221;&nbsp;Through reflections on Bengal&#8217;s rich cultural and intellectual heritage, he encouraged participants to view the region as an enduring laboratory of ideas, innovation, and experimentation. One of the most anticipated discussions of the festival followed shortly after: the Fireside Chat on \u201cAI &amp; Design Jobs\u201d featuring Rahul Bhattacharya, Assistant Dean of Communication Design at UID Gandhinagar and Anindya Bhanja Chowdhury, Vice President of ADI Kolkata and Country Lead for IxDF India. Addressing one of the most pressing questions facing creative industries today, the session explored how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the role of designers. Rather than presenting AI as a threat, the speakers encouraged participants to view it as a collaborative tool capable of enhancing creativity, streamlining workflows, and opening new avenues for innovation. Drawing from their experiences in design education, product strategy, and user experience, they highlighted the importance of adaptability, critical thinking, and human-centred creativity in an increasingly AI-driven world. The panel offered a nuanced perspective, emphasizing that while technology continues to reshape workflows, the essence of design remains deeply human. Creativity, empathy, critical thinking, and the ability to understand human experiences cannot be automated. Rather than replacing designers, AI is increasingly becoming a collaborator capable of expanding creative possibilities and enhancing innovation. The conversation naturally extended into the workshop \u201cDream and Dare &#8211; Journey to Create Your Own AI Tools,\u201d where participants explored the fundamentals of building AI-driven solutions. The session encouraged students to move beyond being passive users of technology and imagine themselves as creators capable of shaping the tools of tomorrow. One of the most engaging sessions of KDF \u201926 was \u201cDesign Thinking with an AI Co-pilot,\u201d led by Shraddha Mishra, Founder of The Tribe of Geeks. Through interactive discussions and practical examples, she encouraged participants to view Artificial Intelligence not as a replacement for creativity but as a tool that can enhance it. Her powerful message, \u201cAI is the co-pilot, you are the pilot,\u201d resonated strongly with the audience, emphasizing that while technology can support the creative process, human imagination, empathy, and decision-making remain at its core. The session&#8217;s interactive nature and relatable insights made it one of the most memorable highlights of the festival. The festival&#8217;s final session brought together Shilpi Chauhan Chakraborty, an independent Visual Communication Designer and Academic &amp; Student Activities Lead for the Kolkata Chapter of ADI, and Meenal Chaudhary, a textile designer, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of the handcrafted textile label Meenakari, for an insightful fireside conversation on the intersection of Fashion Design and UI\/UX Design. Their discussion revealed how seemingly different creative fields are connected through<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":44785,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[1748,1744,1745,296,1746,1743,1685,1742,236,441,1747,26,103],"class_list":["post-44776","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-techno-india-university","tag-creativeminds","tag-designeducation","tag-designfestival","tag-ecoleintuitlab-2","tag-jamahackathon","tag-kdf26","tag-kolkatacreatives","tag-kolkatadesignfest26","tag-mcra","tag-schoolofthefuture-2","tag-studentcreativity","tag-techno-india-group","tag-technoindiauniversity-2"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore KDF &#039;26 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab, where design, AI, creativity, and innovation inspired the next generation of creators.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore KDF &#039;26 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab, where design, AI, creativity, and innovation inspired the next generation of creators.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"technotimes.info\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-02T12:29:07+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-02T12:30:54+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1707\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Suhani\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Suhani\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Suhani\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/person\/52f742aad793dfc02d07f7b001125dad\"},\"headline\":\"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab: Designing Tomorrow, One Idea at a Time\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-02T12:29:07+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-02T12:30:54+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\"},\"wordCount\":1472,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"CreativeMinds\",\"DesignEducation\",\"DesignFestival\",\"EcoleIntuitLab\",\"JAMAHackathon\",\"KDF26\",\"KolkataCreatives\",\"KolkataDesignFest26\",\"MCRA\",\"Schoolofthefuture\",\"StudentCreativity\",\"Techno India Group\",\"technoindiauniversity\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Techno India University\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\",\"name\":\"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-06-02T12:29:07+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-06-02T12:30:54+00:00\",\"description\":\"Explore KDF '26 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab, where design, AI, creativity, and innovation inspired the next generation of creators.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":1707,\"caption\":\"PQRS\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab: Designing Tomorrow, One Idea at a Time\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/\",\"name\":\"technotimes.info\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#organization\",\"name\":\"technotimes.info\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Techno-Times-5-1.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Techno-Times-5-1.png\",\"width\":500,\"height\":107,\"caption\":\"technotimes.info\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/person\/52f742aad793dfc02d07f7b001125dad\",\"name\":\"Suhani\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/319d96345de2be688e2561e22d19b51dced2b061bc3e8b0919fdf55d2ea76359?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/319d96345de2be688e2561e22d19b51dced2b061bc3e8b0919fdf55d2ea76359?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Suhani\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/author\/sayan-test\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab","description":"Explore KDF '26 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab, where design, AI, creativity, and innovation inspired the next generation of creators.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab","og_description":"Explore KDF '26 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab, where design, AI, creativity, and innovation inspired the next generation of creators.","og_url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/","og_site_name":"technotimes.info","article_published_time":"2026-06-02T12:29:07+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-06-02T12:30:54+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1707,"url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Suhani","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Suhani","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/"},"author":{"name":"Suhani","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/person\/52f742aad793dfc02d07f7b001125dad"},"headline":"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab: Designing Tomorrow, One Idea at a Time","datePublished":"2026-06-02T12:29:07+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-02T12:30:54+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/"},"wordCount":1472,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg","keywords":["CreativeMinds","DesignEducation","DesignFestival","EcoleIntuitLab","JAMAHackathon","KDF26","KolkataCreatives","KolkataDesignFest26","MCRA","Schoolofthefuture","StudentCreativity","Techno India Group","technoindiauniversity"],"articleSection":["Techno India University"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/","url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/","name":"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg","datePublished":"2026-06-02T12:29:07+00:00","dateModified":"2026-06-02T12:30:54+00:00","description":"Explore KDF '26 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab, where design, AI, creativity, and innovation inspired the next generation of creators.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/TIU_6739-scaled.jpg","width":2560,"height":1707,"caption":"PQRS"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/2026\/06\/02\/kolkata-design-fest-26-at-ecole-intuit-lab-designing-tomorrow-one-idea-at-a-time\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Kolkata Design Fest \u201926 at \u00c9cole Intuit Lab: Designing Tomorrow, One Idea at a Time"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#website","url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/","name":"technotimes.info","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#organization","name":"technotimes.info","url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Techno-Times-5-1.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Techno-Times-5-1.png","width":500,"height":107,"caption":"technotimes.info"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/person\/52f742aad793dfc02d07f7b001125dad","name":"Suhani","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/319d96345de2be688e2561e22d19b51dced2b061bc3e8b0919fdf55d2ea76359?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/319d96345de2be688e2561e22d19b51dced2b061bc3e8b0919fdf55d2ea76359?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Suhani"},"url":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/author\/sayan-test\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44776","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=44776"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44776\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":44867,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44776\/revisions\/44867"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/44785"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=44776"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=44776"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/technotimes.info\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=44776"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}