Art has a calming influence, helps me focus: Neerja Birla

Michelangelo had once said a man paints with his brains not hands. Neerja Birla, founder of Mpower, would agree with the sentiment. Art for her is all about accessing what’s inside. Birla says she has always enjoyed art, especially the playfulness and magic that art encourages.

“I used to paint and sketch when I was younger. I’ve always loved the magic of colours and lines — they bring a blank canvas to life with expressions of profound beauty and emotion. I still love playing with colour whenever I can, and I’d love to pursue my love for that further someday.”

While Birla is a fan of many styles, her favourite is abstract art.


“I’ve always found myself drawn to abstract styles most often, though I also really enjoy imagery in impressionist paintings and the way that cubism and other styles use lines to create striking new ways of seeing the subject,” she said.

In terms of artists, she lists some of the greats such as Monet, Picasso, SH Raza and Jehangir Sabavala as her favourites.

“I find that art helps me calm down, focus on the moment, and get in touch with my own emotions,” Birla said.