Birth Centenary of Nanda Lal Bose (1882-1966)

Nanda lal Bose, born on December 3, 1882, inherited a natural inclination towards art. After completing his preliminary education, he enrolled at the College of Art in Calcutta in 1905, where he was fortunate to receive guidance from Abanindranath Tagore, the Vice-Principal at the time. His talent was quickly recognized, and he won scholarships and prizes for his paintings, such as “Sati Mounting the Pyre.”

In 1910-11, Bose joined Lady Herringham’s team and assisted in making copies of Ajanta paintings, which allowed him to closely engage with India’s artistic masterpieces. After completing his education, instead of teaching at the College of Art, he chose to work at Jorasanko under Abanindranath Tagore’s guidance. Here, he interacted with luminaries like Ananda Coomaraswami, Sister Nivedita, Okakura, and Rabindranath Tagore, illustrating the literary works of the latter for many years.

At Rabindranath Tagore’s insistence, Bose joined Kala Bhavan, Shantiniketan, in 1920, where he served as Principal until his retirement in 1951. Nationalistic fervor deeply influenced his art style, which blended traditional, decorative, ornamental, and narrative elements with somber colors reflecting typical oriental flavor. He painted numerous mythological themes, expanding gradually to include various aspects of nature and humble life around him.

Bose’s association with Mahatma Gandhi further shaped his artistic expression. He organized exhibitions at the Indian National Congress sessions and adorned Congress pandals with his artwork. His approach to teaching was characterized by kindness and affection, encouraging students to follow their own inclinations.

Bose’s aesthetic theories were articulated through his writings, earning him honorary D. Litt. degrees, medals, and fellowships from several universities and art institutions. He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan by the Government of India. Throughout his prolific career, Bose created around ten thousand works of art, including paintings, watercolors, drawings, and graphics. His vision was cosmic, and he dedicated himself entirely to his art, embodying both the roles of a Silpi-Yogi and a Karma-Yogi. He passed away on April 16, 1966.

In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian art, the Indian Posts & Telegraphs Department is privileged to issue a commemorative stamp featuring one of the famous paintings by this great artist.