A vital bridge between art and education
Established in 1997 by the late Shri Ashok Varma, Ardee Foundation was founded with a clear and enduring mission – to promote excellence in both education and the arts. Over time, it has evolved into a dynamic institution dedicated to fostering independent thought, creativity, and inclusivity. Today, the Foundation is led by his daughter, Shefali Varma, who also serves as an Advisory Board Member of the Kochi Biennale Foundation. Through The Ardee Schools, the Foundation has developed progressive models of art in education that encourage critical inquiry and meaningful cultural engagement. By fostering this vital bridge between art and education, Ardee Foundation continues to enrich communities and empower future generations, ensuring that learning and culture remain integral to the social and creative fabric of our times.
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Community. Environment. Education.
Shefali Varma — Where art meets purpose.
Ms. Varma began her entrepreneurial journey at 18 under the guidance of her late father, Mr. Ashok Varma. While pursuing a master’s in English Literature from Delhi University and studying Architecture at Parsons School of Design, New York, she contributed to landmark projects such as Gopal Das Bhavan in New Delhi and soon took on key roles in the design and management of Ardee’s real estate developments.
In 2003, she expanded into education and teacher training, establishing the first Ardee School in Golf Links. Following her father’s passing, she assumed full leadership of the Ardee Group, overseeing major developments including Ardee City in Gurugram and Ardee Towers in Goa, while growing the network across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, and Goa.
In 2023, the Group further diversified with the launch of its sports vertical—Ardee Racquet Club and Ardee Active—across multiple cities.
Alongside these ventures, Ms. Varma serves as Chairperson of Ardee Foundation, which reflects her long-standing commitment to the arts, education, and cultural dialogue. The Foundation functions as a bridge between education and contemporary artistic practice, supporting exhibitions, awards, and mentorship-led initiatives. Its recent programmes include institutional presentations such as Manjit Bawa: An Enduring Legacy at India Art Fair 2026, the Ardee Legacy Award supporting student artists, and Shobha Broota: The Lightness of Being, a collateral programme of the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. Ms. Varma also serves as an Advisor to the Kochi Biennale Foundation, further strengthening her engagement with one of India’s most significant contemporary art platforms. Through the Foundation, she continues to champion intergenerational exchange, sustained learning, and the active transmission of artistic legacy.
