In April 2026, Raja Ravi Varma’s painting Yashoda and Krishna was sold for ₹167.2 crore at a Saffronart auction in Mumbai. It became the most expensive Indian artwork ever sold, setting a new record in Indian art history.
🖌️ About the Painting
- The artwork depicts a tender moment between Yashoda and infant Lord Krishna.
- Painted in the 1890s, it reflects deep emotion and maternal affection.
- It showcases Ravi Varma’s signature style—fusion of European realism with Indian mythological themes.
- The painting was purchased by Cyrus Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India.
📚 Historical & Cultural Significance
- Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906) is known as the father of modern Indian art.
- He popularized oil painting in India and made mythological subjects more relatable and humanized.
- This painting highlights his mastery in combining emotion, realism, and divinity.
💡 Importance of the Auction
- The sale surpassed M. F. Husain’s Untitled (Gram Yatra) record (₹118 crore, 2025).
- It reflects growing global recognition of Indian art.
- Reinforces the cultural and market value of Indian mythology-based artworks.
Here’s a more exam-oriented, polished MCQ (UPSC/SSC style):
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the painting Yashoda and Krishna:
- It was painted by Raja Ravi Varma.
- It was sold for ₹167.2 crore at a Saffronart auction in April 2026.
- It became the most expensive Indian artwork ever sold.
