A book on Indian modern art “The Gems of Indian Art” launched

The launch of “The Gems of Indian Art”, a comprehensive documentation of Harish Khullar’s extensive collection of 20th-century Indian modern and contemporary art. This near-300-page book was unveiled by Ministers Shri Nitin Gadkari, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Shri S.P.S. Baghel, marking a pivotal moment in India’s art scene.

A Collector’s Dream

Harish Khullar’s collection, which the book documents, is celebrated internationally for its exceptional quality and prestigious provenance. It showcases the tireless efforts of the Khullar family, primarily built by Harish Khullar and later enhanced by his son Gaurav and grandson. Their collection stands as a testament to a deep-rooted passion for Indian art, setting a precedent in a country where private art collections are a relatively new phenomenon.

Pioneers of Private Collections in India

The narrative of private art collections in India is incomplete without mentioning the pioneers like Jehangir Nicholson and the establishment of significant institutions such as the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art (KNMA) and the Centre for International Modern Art (CIMA). These entities have been instrumental in promoting modern and contemporary Indian art, similar to the efforts of the Khullar family.

The Khullar Collection: A Confluence of Vision and Masterpieces

Harish Khullar’s eye for the extraordinary has filled his family’s home with masterpieces by modern Indian masters, blending grandeur with comfort. His collection, featuring works by Tyeb Mehta, M.F. Husain, and F.N. Souza, among others, exemplifies his epicurean taste and vision for Indian art.

A Legacy Documented

“The Gems of Indian Art” is more than a book; it is a celebration of Harish Khullar’s lifelong passion and sophisticated vision for Indian art. Edited by the veteran art critic Vinod Bhardwaj, the publication is a distinguished addition to the discourse on Indian contemporary art history, appreciated for its archival quality by the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in New Delhi.