An arresting narrative of everything, something, and nothing (not necessarily in that same order) invites viewers at Mumbai’s Institute of Contemporary Indian Art (ICIA) Gallery into a fascinatingly off-kilter series of 10 artworks by contemporary artist Suryakant Lokhande. The solo exhibition, titled #EveryDayIsCheatDay, by AstaGuru Auction House and ICIA, contextualises the thematic undertone of Samuel Beckett’s absurdist play Waiting for Godot through a visual grammar that is striking, nostalgic, colourful, and animated.

Using Disney characters — from Uncle Scrooge to Mickey Mouse — Suryakant stages an illusion of allure that pulls viewers back to the 6pm Disney Hour, a dopamine-rich television staple of millennial childhood. What initially appears almost therapeutic — a reminder of good times — slowly mutates into a guilty pleasure (think screen time stretching past homework and sleep deadlines), before metamorphosing into a garish carousel of desire and aspiration. The works evoke ticketed rollercoaster rides at Disneyland, privileges contingent on travel visas and a solid bank balance. An inner dialogue unfolds as the viewer engages with the aesthetics on display.