The art of painting boasts a rich and enduring history on the Indian subcontinent, with its roots tracing back to the Stone Age. Over centuries, Indian paintings have undergone remarkable transformations, profoundly influenced by religion, nature, and royal patronage.

The earliest manifestations of Indian art are found in the rock shelters of Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh, dating back approximately 10,000 years. These paintings, created with pigments derived from ground rocks and minerals, depict scenes of hunting, dancing, and daily life. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs, philosophies, and cultural practices of the time.

The religious philosophy played a major role in deciding the theme of the paintings like Buddhism, Jainism which flourished from the 2nd century BCE to around 480 CE, left an indelible mark on Indian art.The Ajanta and Ellora caves house breathtaking Buddhist and Jain murals depicting the Buddha’s life and Jataka tales. Renowned for their intricate lines and vivid colors. The Gupta era witnessed further refinement of this style, with stunning mural paintings adorning places like the Bagh Caves.

During the medieval times, from the 7th to the 16th century, South Indian temples started to have beautiful murals painted on their walls. The Pallavas and Cholas, two powerful kingdoms, were famous for creating these detailed and colorful murals. One amazing example is the Brihadeshwara temple in Tamil Nadu. This period also saw the emergence of distinct regional styles, including Rajput, Pahari, and Deccan painting, which drew inspiration from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as courtly life and landscapes.

The Deccan Sultanates (16th to 18th centuries) gave rise to Deccan miniatures, a captivating blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian elements characterized by rich colors and intricate details. The subsequent Mughal Empire (16th-19th centuries) introduced Persian and Central Asian influences, resulting in Mughal miniatures renowned for their delicate brushwork, realistic portraits, and celebration of natural beauty. The Mughals also infused existing Indian styles with their artistic sensibilities, leading to a vibrant fusion of elements.

The British colonial era brought European art styles to India, leading to a decline in traditional art forms but simultaneously sparking a 19th-century renaissance. The 20th and 21st centuries have witnessed a remarkable diversity of styles and movements in Indian art. Artists like Raja Ravi Varma, celebrated for his fusion of Indian subjects with European techniques, and contemporary masters like M.F. Husain, Tyeb Mehta, and Anish Kapoor have expanded the horizons of Indian painting.

Throughout its evolution, Indian painting has been profoundly shaped by religious, cultural, and historical factors. Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism have provided rich thematic inspiration, while Islam’s arrival introduced Persian and Central Asian influences. Regional variations, such as the vibrant folk traditions of Rajasthan and Gujarat or the unique styles of Odisha and Bengal, have added to the tapestry of Indian art. The British colonial period and post-independence era have further enriched the landscape, fostering a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity.

The journey of Indian painting is a testament to the nation’s rich and multifaceted cultural heritage. From the ancient rock art to the contemporary masterpieces, Indian paintings have continuously evolved, absorbing and reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the subcontinent’s history. India’s rich artistic heritage is a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy, and it’s common practice to incorporate elements of national culture in such international events like in G20 Nataraja scuplture of Shiva was used .