Governor Kavinder Gupta on Friday inaugurated an exhibition of artworks created during a five-day art camp on the theme, “Depiction of Folk and Rural Life in Kangra Miniature Paintings: Perspectives of Indigenous Indian Artistic Traditions,” at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Shimla.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said Kangra Miniature Painting occupies a distinguished place among the great traditions of Indian art. He described it as an outstanding expression of the Pahari school of painting, renowned worldwide for its aesthetic excellence, delicate craftsmanship and artistic sophistication. He emphasised the need to preserve and promote this invaluable artistic heritage so that India’s rich cultural legacy can be passed on to future generations.
Congratulating the Institute for organising the art camp, Gupta said that the Indian Institute of Advanced Study has long been a premier centre of higher learning, research and intellectual discourse on issues of national importance. He appreciated the Institute’s commitment to preserving Indian culture, knowledge traditions and civilisational heritage through such meaningful initiatives.
The Governor observed that India is one of the world’s oldest civilisations, with an artistic tradition that has evolved continuously over thousands of years while retaining its original essence and identity. “Our artists have created works that connect generations and help society remain rooted in its cultural heritage and values,” he remarked.
Highlighting the contribution of traditional artists, Shri Gupta said that they play a crucial role in keeping indigenous art forms alive. At a time when many traditional arts are facing challenges due to modernisation and changing lifestyles, these artists serve as true custodians of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Speaking specifically about Kangra Miniature Painting, the Governor noted that the art form reached its zenith under the patronage of Raja Sansar Chand. He said that its delicate lines, intricate brushwork, harmonious use of colours, captivating portrayal of nature, and sensitive depiction of human emotions have earned it a place among the finest painting traditions in the world.
The Governor stressed that the preservation and revival of traditional art forms are more important today than ever before. He said that conservation should not be limited to safeguarding old artworks alone but must also focus on empowering the artists, artisans and communities who continue to sustain these traditions. He called for collective efforts by governments, institutions, scholars, artists and local communities to ensure the survival and growth of traditional arts.
Gupta observed that the true identity of a civilisation is reflected not merely in its economic prosperity but also in its cultural richness and creative consciousness. He described the exhibition as not just a display of paintings but a celebration of India’s vibrant cultural heritage and artistic excellence.
Earlier, Director of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Prof. Himanshu Chaturvedi, highlighted the historical significance of the institution. He said that the Institute has been actively working in the fields of art, culture and languages, and that the five-day art camp was organised with the objective of preserving traditional art forms. He also honoured the Governor on the occasion.
Senior artist Dhaniram also shared his views on the significance of preserving indigenous artistic traditions.
Later, the Governor planted a Chinar sapling on the Institute campus as a symbol of environmental conservation and cultural continuity. Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission, Rameshwar Singh Thakur, along with eminent artists, scholars and other distinguished guests, was also present on the occasion.
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