IAFA opens special exhibition on Thakar Singh’s birth anniversary

The Indian Academy of Fine Arts (IAFA) today celebrated the 126th birth anniversary of its founder and eminent artist SG Thakar Singh with a special showcase of his celebrated works.

The S. Thakar Singh Art Gallery in Amritsar—established through IAFA and the School of Arts—houses exhibition halls, an auditorium and workshops, while preserving more than 100 original works and memorabilia. Each year, a special exhibition is opened to the public to promote Thakar Singh’s legacy among younger generations.

Born in Verka near Amritsar in 1899, Thakar Singh received no formal education in his early years, yet showed precocious talent by sketching with coal on village walls. His teacher, Mohammed Alam, recognised his gift and took him to Bombay, where he began working as a scene painter in theatre.

In 1924, his painting After the Bath won second prize at the British Empire Exhibition in London, bringing him international acclaim. Thakar Singh worked in oils, pastels and watercolour, excelling in academic realism—particularly landscapes, portraits, still-lifes and human figures. His works were admired for their detail, serenity, harmony and refined use of colour.

He was patronised by several princely states, including Kota, Udaipur, Bhopal, Kashmir, Travancore, Bikaner, Patiala and Kapurthala. Among his notable works are Punjab Village Fair (1957), depicting vibrant rural festivities; The Golden Temple of Amritsar (1954), a masterful watercolour; and Fishermen at Dawn on Madras Beach (1928), showcasing his skill in landscape painting. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1973 for his contribution to Indian art.

Over the years, Thakar Singh’s works have been compared with those of his contemporary Sobha Singh, though his landscapes in particular have been hailed for their detailing.

IAFA general secretary Dr PS Grover said the special showcase would remain open to the public until Sunday.