Shimla, June 19: Stressing that traditional art forms are vital custodians of the nation’s cultural memory and identity, the Honble Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Kavinder Gupta on Thursday said that preserving and promoting indigenous artistic traditions is essential to safeguarding India’s rich cultural heritage.
This was stated by the Governor while inaugurating an exhibition of artworks created during the Art Camp on “Folk and Rural Imagery in Kangra Miniatures: An Indigenous Indian Art Perspective” and the newly established Art Gallery at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Nivas, Shimla.
Appreciating the efforts of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study in promoting indigenous knowledge and artistic traditions, he noted that initiatives such as art camps, exhibitions and galleries provide a valuable platform for artists, scholars and the public to engage with India’s rich cultural legacy.
Referring to Rabindranath Tagore, he said culture represents the expansiveness of the human spirit, while art is its most sensitive expression. India’s artistic traditions, he added, have evolved continuously over centuries while retaining their unique identity and relevance.
Highlighting the significance of Kangra miniature painting, he described it as one of India’s finest artistic traditions, renowned for its delicate craftsmanship, vibrant colours and profound depiction of human emotions. He said the exhibition beautifully portrays the richness of folk and rural life, which forms the foundation of India’s cultural identity.
Emphasising the need to revitalise traditional art forms, the Governor called for collective efforts by institutions, governments, scholars and local communities to support artists and preserve the nation’s cultural heritage for future generations.
Welcoming the gathering, Prof. Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, Director, IIAS, described the Art Camp as an innovative initiative aimed at fostering dialogue between academic scholarship and living artistic traditions. He expressed confidence that the newly established Art Gallery would emerge as an important centre of attraction for scholars, researchers, students, and visitors in the years to come.
During the programme, the Hon’ble Governor was felicitated by the Institute with a traditional Himachali shawl, cap, and mementoes.
Earlier, the senior artist Shri Dhani Ram presented the special Kangra-style painting inspired by Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda to the Governor.
On the occasion, the Governor felicitated all artists who participated in the Art Camp with the certificates. Following the inauguration, he toured the Art Gallery, interacted with the artists, and appreciated their creations.
It may be noted that the Art Camp, organised by the Indian Institute of Advanced Study from 15 to 19 June 2026, brought together six eminent Kangra miniature painters and two senior Chamba Rumal artists.
