My journey of painting portraits of friends and eminent personalities, holding a key decision for the future of art and culture.

by admin Interviews

Four years ago, a simple meeting at the Cymroza Art Gallery sparked a lasting friendship. At the time, there was a dream to gift a portrait of the legendary Shri. Ratan Tata to the man himself made by one of Manmohan Jaiswal’s friends. Despite several attempts, that dream remained unfulfilled, and eventually, the great visionary passed away.

But where one door closed, another opened.

Inspired by the journey, the focus shifted toward creating new works, including collaborations that brought fresh perspectives to the canvas. This creative path wasn’t just about painting; it was about a larger mission: making art a part of everyday life in India. Some of my paintings also included Shumi Bose, a true inspiration, and my consicous motivation to make this happen.

Now, as art takes centre stage on national platforms like NDTV for the portrait artist of the year, the journey has come full circle. Gifting this painting to Shri. Manmohan Jaiswal, a mentor and the founder of Aakriti Art Foundation, marks a beautiful milestone. It turns a missed opportunity from the past into a celebration of the future—one where art is finally gaining the importance it deserves.

Manmohan Jaiswal at his 4th edition of the Art Festival by Aakriti Art Foundation, Mumbai.

Amruta Fadnavis, at the Great Indian Spin.

Dr. Huz on his birthday, at the Punjab Grill restaurant.

Shri Sura Das Prabhuji, at Kharghar Isckon

Smt. Bhagwati Mittal, at her residence.

Assistant to Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani and Darshan Hiranandani at the Powai Office.

Mr. Baqar Nasser the Great Indian Spin at Byculla.

Ar. Sanjeev Joshi, Urban Sketchers Pune. A stalwart in art and architecture restoration.

Mr. Jaoquim D’Souza, at Secudearbad.

Shabbir Shakir, at Secunderabad.

Smt. Fehmi Kantawala, at Moshi, Pune.

Smt. Yasmin Shaikh assistant to Smt. Ritu Chabbria at Muluk Madhav Foundation, Pune.

Amil Saheb Moiz Bhai Dalal, on the occasion of Moharram. The tree is at Jordan and is 1500 years old.

Shumi Bose, a portrait on canson paper and poster colours.