“In a historic moment for the Indian art world, legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma’s iconic painting Yashoda and Krishna has become the most expensive painting ever sold in India.
The masterpiece was auctioned by Saffronart for an astonishing ₹167.20 crore (approximately $18 million), with prominent industrialist Cyrus Poonawalla acquiring the artwork.
Created in the 1890s, the painting is over 130 years old and beautifully captures the deep bond between mother Yashoda and Lord Krishna—a symbol of maternal love deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Raja Ravi Varma is widely regarded as the “father of modern Indian art” for his ability to bring mythological characters to life in a realistic and relatable way. His works bridged the gap between classical traditions and modern artistic expression, making them accessible to the masses.
The previous record for the most expensive Indian painting was held by M. F. Husain’s Gram Yatra, which sold for around ₹118.7 crore.
Art experts believe this new record highlights the growing global recognition and value of Indian art. It reflects a shift where collectors are increasingly appreciating not just contemporary works, but also traditional and historically significant masterpieces.”
The masterpiece was auctioned by Saffronart for an astonishing ₹167.20 crore (approximately $18 million), with prominent industrialist Cyrus Poonawalla acquiring the artwork.
Created in the 1890s, the painting is over 130 years old and beautifully captures the deep bond between mother Yashoda and Lord Krishna—a symbol of maternal love deeply rooted in Indian culture.
Raja Ravi Varma is widely regarded as the “father of modern Indian art” for his ability to bring mythological characters to life in a realistic and relatable way. His works bridged the gap between classical traditions and modern artistic expression, making them accessible to the masses.
The previous record for the most expensive Indian painting was held by M. F. Husain’s Gram Yatra, which sold for around ₹118.7 crore.
Art experts believe this new record highlights the growing global recognition and value of Indian art. It reflects a shift where collectors are increasingly appreciating not just contemporary works, but also traditional and historically significant masterpieces.”
