Indian painting has gone through several phases. From ancient paintings to contemporary art, new forms of paintings kept enchanting us. However one thing remained constant and that was quality and charm of the art works. If we take a look at modern Indian painting, it was clearly influenced from western world. The era of modern Indian paintings started during pre-independence India when western art works had started to influence Indian painters. By western influences, I mean western techniques and principles were used to create paintings by the Indian artists. It is being said that art takes its inspiration from events, happenings and society. It reflects what’s going on in current context. That way, it does not come as a surprise to find the origin of modern Indian paintings.

One of the painters who made a huge mark in this form of paintings was Raja Ravi Varma. His art works are a perfect example of beautiful amalgamation of Indian as well as western techniques. Apart from Jamini Roy was also renowned for making beautiful art works that lent a balance between both form and technique of different cultures. His paintings were considered as rooted because it was clearly influenced and yet its essence was very much Indian.

The usage of modern techniques was in conjunction with Indian themes. That was the beauty of modern art which had beautiful mixture of western techniques and Indian themes. It can be seen in many paintings that has Hindu philosophy and mythological stories as their themes. Post Independence era witnessed worldwide recognition of Indian artists like Rabindranath Tagore and Amrita Shergill apart from opening up of several art galleries. Soon, the art movement was followed by formation of the Progressive Artist’s Group that had members like K. H. Ara, S. K. Bakre, H. A. Gade, M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza and F. N. Souza. This group had an immense impact on modern Indian Art.