Maharashtra Artists Shine at 65th National Art Exhibition
Three artists from Maharashtra receive prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi National Awards in New Delhi.
Ramesh Vitthal Thorat, Siddharth Shingade, and Pritam Madhukar Devaskar awarded for their unique artworks.
The awards were presented by President Droupadi Murmu at a significant cultural event.
The exhibition featured over 6,000 artworks from nearly 2,500 artists nationwide.
On October 21, 2026, three talented artists from Maharashtra were honored with the Lalit Kala Akademi National Awards during the 65th National Art Exhibition held in New Delhi. The award ceremony took place at the Dr Ambedkar International Centre, where President Droupadi Murmu presented the accolades, highlighting the significance of the event in promoting Indian art.
Ramesh Vitthal Thorat, Siddharth Shahajirao Shingade, and Pritam Madhukar Devaskar were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the art world. Thorat received the award for his oil painting titled 'Untitled – II', while Shingade was honored for his mixed-media piece 'Trees'. Devaskar's award was for his printmaking work 'Of Time and the City', showcasing the diversity of artistic expression among the winners.
The National Art Exhibition attracted a remarkable 6,175 artworks submitted by 2,495 artists from 27 states and Union Territories. A selection committee initially shortlisted 270 pieces for display, culminating in the final selection of 20 outstanding artworks that were awarded. This rigorous process underscores the competitive nature of the awards and the high caliber of talent present.
The recognition of these three artists has not only brought them individual accolades but has also spotlighted Maharashtra's vibrant contemporary art scene on a national platform. Their achievements reflect the growing appreciation for diverse artistic mediums and the importance of supporting local talent in the arts.
Looking ahead, the Lalit Kala Akademi continues to play a pivotal role in fostering artistic innovation and providing a platform for artists across India. The success of this year's exhibition sets a promising precedent for future events, encouraging more artists to participate and showcase their work.
