A. A. Almelkar (Abdulrahim Appabhai Almelkar), 10 October 1920 – 12 December 1982, was a notable Indian painter whose work is recognised for its distinctive synthesis of indigenous artistic traditions and modern pictorial sensibilities. Born in Solapur, Maharashtra, Almelkar showed an early inclination towards drawing and began painting at a young age. He pursued formal training at the Sir J. J. School of Art, Bombay, graduating in 1948, where he received several awards during his student years from institutions such as the Bombay Art Society and the Art Society of India.
Almelkar’s early works were influenced by Western impressionist landscapes, but he gradually evolved a more indigenous visual language inspired by Indian miniature painting and traditional mural traditions. His paintings often depict rural life, tribal communities and natural landscapes, rendered with intricate line work, luminous colour and carefully structured compositions.
Alongside his artistic practice, Almelkar also contributed to art education. He served as Principal of Nutan Kala Mandir in Bombay and later joined the Sir J. J. School of Art as a lecturer in 1968.
Over his career, Almelkar held numerous exhibitions in India and abroad, receiving several honours including the Lalit Kala Akademi Award, which he won twice. His works are represented in important collections such as the National Gallery of Modern Art and the Lalit Kala Akademi, securing his place among the significant painters of twentieth century Indian art.