Discover the six most celebrated Indian paintings.

In a world filled with myriad artworks, some stand out as timeless treasures, deeply ingrained in Indian art history. These masterpieces have captivated art enthusiasts for generations, their allure emanating from both their aesthetic brilliance and the narratives they encapsulate. Each brushstroke, each hue, breathes life into the canvas. Now, let's delve into the realm of the most renowned Indian paintings.

"Horses" by M.F. Hussain-When discussing Indian art, artists, and iconic Indian paintings, it's impossible not to mention Maqbool Fida Hussain, a globally renowned and prolific Indian artist. This masterpiece by the Indian maestro impeccably conveys the strength and dynamism of the trio of horses with its striking contours. Considered one of Hussain Saab's finest creations, this painting commanded significant attention when auctioned at Christie's in London in 2008, fetching over Rs. 1 crore—a testament to both the artwork's magnificence and the artist's unparalleled talent.

"Shakuntala" by Raja Ravi Verma-An epitome of Indian artistry, "Shakuntala" is crafted by the esteemed and celebrated artist Raja Ravi Verma. Among his numerous masterpieces, this painting portrays Shakuntala, a pivotal character from the epic Mahabharata, delicately feigning to remove a thorn from her foot while secretly yearning for her beloved husband, Dushyanta. The subtle twist and posture of her head and body impeccably capture the essence of the narrative.

"Bharat Mata" by Abanindranath Tagore-When seeking the quintessential Indian art masterpieces, one cannot overlook this iconic creation by Abanindranath Tagore. As the founder of the Bengal School of Art, Abanindranath's "Bharat Mata" portrays a woman draped in a saffron saree, reminiscent of a Sadhvi, clutching symbols of knowledge, purity, reverence, and prosperity in her four hands.

This painting holds a significant position in Indian history, believed to have stirred the spirits of many nationalists during India's struggle for independence from British rule. It ignited a fervent sense of patriotism and impassioned determination among the populace to assert their rights.

An intriguing anecdote linked to this artwork involves Sister Nivedita, a prominent freedom fighter from Bengal, who was so moved by the painting that she envisioned carrying it from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, spreading the flames of nationalism across the nation, rallying both men and women to rise in defense of Bharat Mata, their motherland.

"Bapuji" by Nandlal Bose-It's widely recognized that Mahatma Gandhi stood as one of the greatest champions of freedom worldwide. His doctrine of non-violence and Satyagraha continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals. Yet, lesser-known is the fact that Gandhi, affectionately called Bapu, served as both muse and inspiration for numerous artists of his time, including the revered Indian artist Nandalal Bose.

Hailing from Shantiniketan, Bose once declared Gandhi as a muse for all artists. Motivated by his principles and life's work, Bose crafted the renowned linocut portrait of Mahatma Gandhi, depicting his stride during the Dandi March, adorned with the word 'Bapuji'. Originating in 1930, this portrait stands among the finest of Indian paintings, now showcased permanently at the National Gallery of Modern Art in Delhi.

"Three Pujarins" by Jamini Roy- Jamini Roy, a distinguished artist from Bengal, stands as one of the early modernists in 20th-century Indian art. His creation, "Three Pujarins," showcases three priestesses with almond-shaped eyes, a departure from the conventional perception of priests being male in India.

Inspired deeply by Bengal's folk art tradition, Jamini Roy consistently explored vibrant hues and developed his distinctive painting style. His body of work remains a source of inspiration for aspiring artists across Bengal and India, offering a visual delight that continues to resonate with modern sensibilities.

"Bindu" by S.H. Raza-Syed Haider Raza stands out as one of India's most renowned artists, acclaimed for his role in popularizing Indian iconography on a global scale. Across his extensive and distinguished career, Raza's artistic endeavors consistently revolved around a singular focal point: the bindu or shunya.

His inaugural solo exhibition debuted in 1946, marking the onset of a journey marked by continuous artistic evolution. However, it was in the 1970s that Raza unearthed the motif that would secure his status as a legendary figure—the Bindu, a masterpiece that would define his legacy.

Beyond these iconic works, Indian artists have produced a plethora of stunning creations. Delve into their captivating narratives and artistic brilliance by exploring the myriad art galleries scattered across India.