Jamini Roy – “Two Vaishnavas”

The journey of contemporary Indian art, though relatively brief against the backdrop of India’s 5,000-year-old artistic tradition, has been nothing short of remarkable. It is widely acknowledged that the defining characteristics of contemporary Indian art began to emerge prominently in the post-Independence era, drawing inspiration from earlier luminaries such as Abanindranath Tagore, Ravi Varma, and the Company School.

One of the distinguishing features of contemporary Indian art is its remarkable diversity of expression, which, while initially perplexing, reveals its richness with deeper exploration and study. Contemporary Indian artists exhibit a bold spirit of adventure and a profound commitment to artistic freedom, coupled with an eclectic approach to technical challenges and a strong sense of individualism—a hallmark of the modern age.

The pioneers of contemporary Indian art, including Rabindranath Tagore, Abanindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, Jamini Roy, and Amrita Sher Gil, have left an indelible mark on the artistic landscape of India. Their contributions continue to inspire subsequent generations of artists, who have made substantial contributions to the evolution of contemporary Indian art.

Jamini Roy, born in 1887 in the Bankura district of West Bengal, was one such pioneer whose work exemplified a deep connection to the unsophisticated people and their art. His remarkable contributions earned him recognition and accolades, including the Padma Bhushan in 1955 and the title of Fellow of the Lalit Kala Akademi in 1956. His legacy as a pioneer of contemporary Indian art continues to resonate, inspiring artists to explore new avenues of expression and to delve deeper into the cultural fabric of India.

The decision of the Indian Post and Telegraphs Department to commemorate modern Indian paintings through a series of special postage stamps is a testament to the enduring significance and impact of contemporary Indian art. By celebrating the works of artists like Jamini Roy, the department not only honors their contributions but also brings their art to a wider audience, both nationally and internationally. As contemporary Indian art continues to evolve and flourish, it remains a vibrant testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy.