Raja Ravi Varma Yashoda Krishna Painting Sells for 167 Crore at Auction

• Raja Ravi Varma Yashoda Krishna painting sold for 167 crore
• Cyrus Poonawalla buys record Indian artwork at auction
• Yashoda Krishna becomes highest priced Indian painting ever

A masterpiece by legendary Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma has created history at a high profile auction in Mumbai, fetching an unprecedented 167 crore. The iconic Yashoda Krishna painting has now become the most expensive Indian artwork ever sold.

The artwork attracted intense bidding during the Saffron Art Spring Live auction, with several collectors competing to acquire it. In the end, renowned industrialist and Serum Institute chairman Cyrus Poonawalla secured the painting, marking a significant moment in the Indian art market.

Painted in the 1890s, the Yashoda Krishna artwork beautifully captures a tender moment between mother Yashoda and young Lord Krishna. The emotional depth and realism in the painting reflect Ravi Varma’s unique ability to blend European artistic techniques with traditional Indian themes.

With this sale, the painting has surpassed the previous record held by MF Husain’s artwork, which was sold for around 118 crore. The new benchmark highlights the growing global recognition and value of Indian art.

Cyrus Poonawalla expressed pride in acquiring the historic piece, describing it as both an honor and a responsibility. His purchase underscores the importance of preserving culturally significant artworks.

Raja Ravi Varma, born in 1848 in Kerala, remains one of India’s most celebrated artists. His paintings played a crucial role in shaping the visual representation of Hindu deities, making them more relatable to the public. His works continue to inspire generations of artists.

Through his distinctive style, Ravi Varma bridged the gap between traditional Indian storytelling and European realism, leaving behind a legacy that still resonates in the art world today.