Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906) was a renowned Indian painter, often called the father of modern Indian art. Known for blending Indian traditions with European academic realism, his paintings depicted mythological and historical themes. His notable works include “Shakuntala,” “Damayanti Talking to a Swan,” and portraits of Indian royalty.
Raja Ravi Varma’s art played a crucial role in popularizing Indian mythology and culture. He used oil paintings to make art accessible to a wider audience. Throughout his life, Ravi Varma faced challenges in navigating the traditional art scene, but his innovations left a lasting impact on Indian art.