Jagdish Mittal, a 99-year-old Padma Shri Awardee, has dedicated his life to preserving and celebrating India’s rich artistic heritage. Alongside his wife, Kamla, he founded the Jagdish and Kamla Mittal Museum of Indian Art in Hyderabad in 1976. The museum houses over 2,500 artifacts dating from 1200 to 1900 AD, each with a unique story and cultural significance.
Born in Mussoorie in 1925, Mittal’s fascination with art began at a young age. At just seven years old, he observed local craftsmen, including potters and weavers, which sparked his lifelong interest in traditional crafts. Despite his family’s engineering background, Mittal pursued his passion for art, studying painting and sculpture from the age of 17. His formal education at Kala Bhavana, the art institution founded by Rabindranath Tagore, further deepened his artistic journey.
Mittal’s extensive collection includes a diverse range of artifacts:
Kantha Embroidery: A late 19th-century quilt from West Bengal, showcasing intricate bird and animal designs. Miniature Paintings: Works like “Usha receives a boon from Parvati” (c. 1780–90) and “A Rani on a terrace is presented with falcons” (c. 1746–48), both from the Guler style. Bidriware: A globular hookah base from Bidar, dated 1634 AD, crafted from a unique alloy inlaid with silver and brass.
Bijapur Marble Sculpture: A 17th-century marble piece depicting a plump begum, adorned with touches of color, gold, and silver Each artifact reflects the rich cultural tapestry of India, representing various regions and artistic traditions.
Mittal’s vision for the museum was to make art accessible to all. He believed in the importance of connecting students and the public with India’s artistic heritage. The museum serves as a testament to his dedication, offering visitors an opportunity to experience and appreciate the diverse artistic expressions of India.
Through his life’s work, Jagdish Mittal has not only preserved invaluable pieces of India’s history but has also inspired future generations to cherish and uphold the nation’s rich artistic traditions.
