Early Life and Background
Raja Ravi Varma, a celebrated Indian painter, was born on April 29, 1848, in Kilimanoor, Kerala, India. He was closely related to the royal family of Travancore and later adopted two of his granddaughters into that royal family.
Artistic Career
Varma's artistic career is marked by his unique blend of European techniques with a purely Indian sensibility. His works are considered among the best examples of this fusion, making him one of the greatest painters in Indian art history. Employing the latest European academic art techniques, Varma continued the tradition and aesthetics of Indian art.
- Notable for making affordable lithographs of his paintings available to the public, enhancing his reach and influence as a painter and public figure.
- His depictions of Hindu deities and episodes from the epics and Puranas received profound acceptance from the public, often found as objects of worship across India.
Personal Life and Royal Connections
Varma was married to Bhageerthi Bayi, a member of the royal house of Mavelikkara, in 1866. This close connection to the royal family led to his children being considered royalty by birth. Two of Varma's daughters were later adopted into the Travancore royal family, and their descendants comprise the present royal family.
Legacy
Varma's artistic legacy is profound, with his work influencing Indian art for several decades. His unique style, blending European techniques with Indian sensibility, has made him a pioneer in Indian art history.
Important Works:
- Mahaprabha Amma, one of Varma's most famous paintings, featuring his daughter.
- Uma Amma, named after Varma's mother, showcasing his blend of European and Indian techniques.
Relevant Collections:
Further Reading: