June 18, 2023 (IANSlife) The history of Modern Indian Art shines with countless luminous stars, whose legacy is eternally remembered and cherished. Of these, the old masters of Indian art, active during the late 19th and early 20th century, hold immense importance in the cultural heritage of the nation. These artists, divided by their artistic and political ideologies, made significant contributions to the development and preservation of Indian art during a crucial period of transition.

One group of old masters emerged from the Bombay School of Art, where they excelled in the European Academic Realism imparted at the Sir J J School of Art. These artists embraced the colonial legacy and mastered techniques that blended Indian subject matter with Western artistic styles. Their works showcased the assimilation of European art principles into the Indian context, creating a unique fusion. An important figure of this era, M. V. Dhurandhar was an extremely versatile artist, best known for his mastery in bringing the characters and stories from Indian mythology to life through his paintings.

Dhurandhars mythological works often depict the gods and goddesses of Hinduism, as well as scenes from great epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. However, the lesser-known aspect of his grand oeuvre is several landscape paintings he created. Dhurandhars landscape paintings capture the beauty and majesty of the Indian countryside. He was particularly interested in portraying the rural landscapes of Maharashtra, where he grew up. His paintings often depict rolling hills, lush forests, and tranquil water bodies such as lakes and rivers. He also frequently incorporated human figures and animals in his works, adding a sense of life and movement to his landscapes.