The father of modern Indian art, Raja Ravi Varma


'the prince amongst painters...
the painter amongst princes...'


These two lines from the biographical film 'Rang Rasiya', based on his life seem to be very appropriate for this painter. He was born in a aristocratic family of Travancore on Aril 29, 1848. Ravi Varma was a child prodigy and got recognised for his inherent talent at a young age in China and recieved the patronage of king Ayilyam Thirunal of Travancore. He came across many Indian and European painters and learned to use water colour and oil paints. In 1873 he got the Governor's gold medal at Vienna Art Exhibition and was awarded the title of 'Raja' by king Ayilyam Thirunal. 

He soon became famous for his portrayal of Indian and British royals. He had an unique style of painting, making an amalgamation of classic Indian style with European realism. he left for Bombay after the death of Ayilyam Thirunal. He expanded his horizon as he became more and more popular. He was the first to give a face to Indian Gods and Godesses by creating their realistic images. He was also famous for his depictions from  Mahabharat and Ramayan and they brought alive the ancient cultural heritage of India. This paintings were made as if Raja was searching for the soul of India. He died on October 2, 1906. 

He was a true visionary and pioneer and with the help of a German master printer, he setup the first ever lithographic press of India and soon his paintings were reaching out to homes across the nation. the most celebrated painter of India has often being criticized for being too showy but he remains very popular across the globe even now.    

     

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