Buddham Saranam Gacchami

“Buddham Saranam Gacchami” Exhibition organized in the National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi inaugurated a week succeeding Buddha Purnima in the month of May was based on the life of Lord Buddha and showcased the voyage of Buddhist art and culture around the world. The exhibition was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Culture Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi   in the presence of senior Buddhist monks, H.E. Ambassadors, H.E. the Kundeling Tatsak Rinpoche of the Drepung Gomang Monastery.

The exhibition showcased the artworks of iconic masters of modern Indian art documenting a distinct facet of Buddhism and Buddha's life. These artistic works display a glimpse into the history, philosophy of Buddhism and explore the spirituality of art and their elements related with Buddhism and its journey expressing the universal values of wisdom, compassion, and peace.The Exhibition included artwork of artists from Sri Lanka and Myanmar. The most interesting artworks of iconic Indian artist Nandalal Bose have explored the life and teachings of Buddha and his path of spirituality through line drawings with an ethereal quality.

Nandalal Bose is an important personality of Contextual Modernism and a well-known figure in contemporary Indian art. On December 3, 1882, he was born in Kharagpur, Munger, Bengal Presidency, British India (now in Bihar, India), and he passed away on April 16, 1966, in Calcutta, West Bengal, India. Bose was Abanindranath Tagore's student, and he is renowned for his "Indian style" of painting. In 1921, he was appointed principal of Kala Bhavan in Santiniketan.

Paintings of scenes from Indian mythologies, women, and other subjects are among Bose's classic works. He was a prominent figure in India's Neo-Bengal school. Bose's works have been auctioned off. The Government of Independent India entrusted him with some of the most prestigious projects.His classic works include paintings of scenes from Indian mythologies, women, and village life. some of his notable works: Woman In Landscape; Waiting For The Beloved; Winnowing; Krishna Paintings; Buddha Paintings; Shiva Paintings; Ganesha Paintings; Lakshmi Paintings; Saraswati Paintings; Haripura Panels and Posters Collection

Bose was known for his "Indian style" of painting, which was a synthesis of various art traditions such as folk art, Mogul and Pahari miniatures, Ajanta murals, and more. Bose was also influenced by Japanese art and techniques. He was well aware that European painting relied heavily on shadows and perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional forms and space. His paintings reflected his identity and politics, and he used his art to address social ills and promote Indian culture.

The artworks of Nandalal Bose have indigenous modes of expression which can be seen in use of traditional Indian themes, motifs, and techniques. He was known for his "Indian style" of painting, which was a synthesis of diverse art traditions. His paintings reflect his identity by promoting Indian culture. Folk art; themes of Indian mythologies; Women and village life; Japanese techniques used by Bose had a significant contribution to the development of modern Indian art and helped create a visual and cultural national identity for India.He used bold lines and flat colors with simplified forms are the key features of his works. The artworks depicted local themes and reflected folk art tradition.

Bose's use of indigenous modes of expression helped develop an indigenous and national visual aesthetic that was separate from the prevailing British colonial academic painting style.  Bose created a series of paintings that celebrated the spirit of Indian life and indigenous.

Nandalal Bose had a strong association with Buddhism throughout his life and artistic career. His connection to Buddhism influenced both his personal beliefs and artistic expressions. Bose's artworks incorporated Buddhist symbolism and iconography, drawing inspiration from ancient scriptures and traditional art. He aimed to capture the spiritual essence of Buddhism through techniques and styles, often depicting key Buddha moments. Bose contributed to the revival and preservation of ancient art forms and collaborated with prominent Buddhist scholars to promote Buddhist art and culture.

Nandalal Bose, an advocate for the revival and promotion of traditional Indian art forms, chose Buddha as a subject to reinterpret the artistic heritage associated with Buddhism. Drawing inspiration from ancient Indian art styles and techniques, Bose's paintings aimed to reinstate the significance of traditional Indian art and its connection to spirituality. Bose's decision to paint Buddha was influenced by personal beliefs, artistic goals, and cultural climate. He made significant contributions to mural painting, particularly his series of Gautam Buddha paintings, which showcase his mastery of line, form, and color. Bose collaborated with prominent Buddhist scholars and leaders to promote Buddhist art and culture.

Nandalal Bose's famous Buddha paintings include "Sujata and Buddha," depicting Gautam Buddha receiving milk rice from Sujata, showcasing his reverence and devotion. "Buddha and His Disciples," depicting the Buddha in a meditative pose, captures unity and harmony between the Buddha and his followers. Bose's works transcend Buddhism, encompassing mythological scenes, landscapes, portraits, and social issues, showcasing his artistic versatility and cultural sensitivity.