NGMA Mumbai launches Publication on eminent Artist Rao Bahadur M. V. Dhurandhar

MUMBAI (RMN.IN): The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), Mumbai organised the launch of the significant publication “Rao Bahadur M. V. Dhurandhar: A Painter from the Bombay School of Art”, authored by noted researcher and art historian Shri Sandeep Dahisarkar today at NGMA Mumbai.

The event was graced by Shri Ashish Shelar, Minister for Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, Dr. Pheroza J. Godrej, and renowned painter Shri Vasudeo Kamath, along with senior members of the art fraternity, researchers, scholars, and students.

Speaking on the occasion, Smt. Nidhi Choudhari, Director, NGMA Mumbai, said that the book made an important contribution to the scholarship of the Bombay School of Art and highlighted Rao Bahadur M. V. Dhurandhar’s role as a significant artistic and cultural bridge of his time. She added that NGMA Mumbai was honoured to host the release of this publication.

Dr. Pheroza J. Godrej described the book as a valuable and well-researched work that presented Dhurandhar’s artworks, newly discovered pieces, and key aspects of his life, supported by archival material, making it an important contribution to Indian art history.

Painter Shri Vasudeo Kamath said that the publication brought forth lesser-known facets of Dhurandhar’s diverse artistic contributions. He noted that the author had avoided repetition of earlier research and had successfully highlighted the artist’s unique and extraordinary achievements, making the book essential reading for art lovers and students.

Dr. Sadanand More remarked that the book offered a comprehensive and insightful account of Dhurandhar’s life and work against the backdrop of his times, while also deepening the understanding of socio-cultural history and Indianness in art. The event concluded with wide appreciation from artists, scholars, students, and researchers for the publication and its contribution to Indian art history.

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PIB Mumbai | Edgar Coelho/Darshana Rane