Kangra colours shine in Romania

A vibrant celebration of India’s rich artistic legacy unfolded at the National Village Museum “Dimitrie Gusti” in Romania, where the Kangra Miniature Paintings Exhibition captivated both art enthusiasts and dignitaries alike. Jointly organised by the Embassy of India in Romania, the Kangra Arts Promotion Society (KAPS) and the National Village Museum, the event showcased the intricate beauty, spiritual depth and refined elegance of Kangra miniature paintings.

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The exhibition featured remarkable works by veteran Kangra artists — Monu Kumar of Khaniyara (18 years’ experience), Poonam Katoch from Chamunda Devi (17 years) and Reeta Dhiman of Nagrota Bagwan (11 years) — all currently on a European tour. Each artist has been trained under the expert mentorship of Mukesh Dhiman and Dhani Ram (Khushdil), both master painters from Kangra district.

KAPS president Akshay Raunchal, who spearheaded the initiative, stressed the importance of global exposure for the art form. “Our mission is to preserve and promote this unique heritage beyond Indian borders,” he said. Kangra miniature painting traces its roots to the early 18th century in the princely state of Guler, located in present-day Himachal Pradesh.

The exhibition’s inauguration was graced by an esteemed gathering of ambassadors and diplomats, including the Indonesian Ambassador and his daughter, as well as dignitaries from the Philippines, Algeria, Palestine and representatives from the Romanian government and other embassies. The welcome address was delivered by Her Excellency Manika Jain, Indian Ambassador to Romania.

Visitors were mesmerised by the intricate brushwork, luminous natural pigments, and the timeless spiritual and romantic themes that define Kangra miniatures. The event not only celebrated the aesthetic legacy of Indian classical art but also served to deepen cultural ties between India and Romania.

As the exhibition continues to draw praise, it stands as a glowing testament to the universal language of art and the enduring appeal of India’s traditional craftsmanship.