The concept of Hathaai is inspired by a tradition from Rajasthan (India), where people gather in village squares, under trees, or at the edges of villages to engage in long, meandering conversations about art, society, and philosophy.
Within Maghenta, we translate this tradition into informal gatherings where artists, residents, and curious visitors come together to share ideas, questions, and experiences.
Rather than a traditional panel discussion or lecture, these encounters are conceived as open exchanges in a relaxed setting, often connected to a specific artist or residency trajectory.
Starting in 2026, Maghenta will organize Hathaai gatherings in different locations across Ghent, each time in collaboration with local partners. The aim is to create accessible meeting moments where art and everyday life intersect.
Local residents, artists, and audiences can meet and engage in conversation in an informal and welcoming way.
In parallel, Hathaai gatherings will also be organized in Jodhpur (India) in collaboration with our sister organisation Thorr Collective, creating a living dialogue between two cities and different cultural contexts.