Kangra miniature painting holds distinguished place in India’s great artistic traditions: Governor

SHIMLA 19 June, 2026

· Traditional artists play vital role in preserving indigenous art forms

· Inaugurates exhibition of artworks created during Kangra miniature painting camp

Governor Kavinder Gupta today inaugurated an exhibition of artworks created during a five-day art camp on the theme ‘Depiction of Folk and Rural Life in Kangra Miniature Paintings: Perspectives of Indigenous Indian Artistic Traditions’ at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Niwas here, today.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said that Kangra Miniature Painting holds a distinguished place among India’s great artistic traditions and is one of the finest expressions of the Pahari school of painting. He said that the art form is admired worldwide for its delicate craftsmanship, intricate brushwork, harmonious use of colours and sensitive portrayal of nature and human emotions.

Emphasising the need to preserve and promote this rich cultural heritage, Shri Gupta said that India’s artistic traditions reflect the country’s civilization values and cultural identity. He said that art plays an important role in connecting generations and helping society remain rooted in its heritage.

The Governor praised IIAS for organizing the art camp and appreciated the institution’s continued efforts to promote Indian culture, knowledge traditions and heritage through such initiatives. He said that traditional artists are the true custodians of indigenous art forms and deserve greater support and recognition for keeping these traditions alive.

Referring to the history of Kangra Miniature Painting, he said that the art form reached its peak under the patronage of Maharaja Sansar Chand and earned global recognition for its artistic excellence. He stressed that conservation efforts should focus not only on preserving historic artworks but also on empowering the artists, artisans and communities who continue to sustain these traditions.