New efforts aim to restore Kangra miniature tradition

Radha celebrating Holi, painting, c.1788 (Image Credit - Wikimedia)

By: Preshita Thakur
Those who want to get a deeper experience of the traditional art of Himachal Pradesh at Dharamshala has a better chance now as the Museum of Kangra Art in Dharamshala is soon going to accommodate more of the Kangra paintings. The on-going renovation of the museum aims at increasing the space given to Kangra miniature paintings, told the museum authorities.

It will take another two to three months for the completion of construction. “After the renovation, we will bring out more paintings from bigger names including Padma Shri awardee Vijay Sharma and other senior artists”, says Dr.RituKumari, curator of the museum.

The museum, run by the Language and Culture Department of the state government, is one of the major art galleries in the area dedicated to Kangra miniature paintings. The museum also used to conduct training sessions on Kangra painting in collaboration with Kangra Arts Promotion Society (KAPS), an NGO working for promotion of Kangra art. The classes have since moved to Mcleodganj, due to the ongoing construction activities at the Museum.

Museum of Kangra Art in Dharamshala

 As part of their initiative to preserve the tradition of Kangra miniature paintings, KAPS has opened ‘Chitera’, an institute to train budding painters in the traditional Guru-Shishya parampara of Pahari paintings. Most recently, they have inaugurated a new space in Mcloedganj, an art gallery to exhibit works by its artists.

There are many renowned artists as well who are associated with the museum, practicing and teaching directly from the temples nearby. Dhani Ram Khushdil holds a clerical post at the Brijeshwari Temple but also teaches students interested in Kangra paintings for free. “I want to pass on this great tradition to the upcoming generation,” says he.

Kangra Miniature painting has its history rooted far back in the 18th century. It is still practiced today, though the exposure is limited. With all the above efforts, there is hope for better results in reigniting the glory and status of the paintings and its artists.