Pahari painting prowess: 2,500 artists showcase cultural vision

The Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with Lalit Kala Akademi, Delhi, hosted the cultural extravaganza “Viksit Bharat ke Rang-Kala ke Sang” at the Lalit Kala Akademi Regional Centre, Shimla, on the historic Ridge Maidan.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from around 2,500 artists nationwide across three categories — School, College/University and Professional.

In the Professional Category, Kangra-based artist Suresh Chaudhary bagged the first prize, earning a cash award of Rs 1,00,000. His winning artwork, created in the traditional Guler style of Pahari painting, portrayed Prime Minister Narendra Modi holding the sengol (sceptre) — a symbol of India’s ancient heritage and cultural continuity. The painting seamlessly wove themes of development and tradition, depicting initiatives such as Skill India, Make in India, and India’s envisioned economic rise by 2047. A leaping lion and a coin on a world map symbolised progress, while universal education and yoga for children by 2047 were also artistically highlighted.

The event was attended by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur and Lalit Kala Akademi president Nandlal Thakur, who lauded the artists for their contribution to preserving India’s cultural and artistic legacy.

Suresh Chaudhary, who hails from Kangra district, has been practicing the Pahari style for over 25 years. A PhD scholar specialising in Pahari painting techniques, he has earned recognition for reviving and innovating within the traditional school of art while connecting it to contemporary themes.