10 Must-visit Art Galleries In India

World Art Day is celebrated on April 15 every year. This day aims to create a bridge between artists and audiences and highlights their contribution to the development of the world. The day was officially announced as World Art Day in 2012 by the International Association of Art.

This date was specifically chosen to coincide with the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci, one of the most popular names in history, whose work continues to inspire and influence artists around the world.

Later, in 2019, UNESCO acknowledged the same in association with the International Association of Art. On World Art Day, every year special events like debates, workshops, cultural events, etc are organised around the world. The events are generally graced by well-known artists from around the globe. Ahead of the World Art Day 2024, let us look at the 10 must-visit art galleries in India:

1. Academy of Fine Arts, Kolkata

The Kolkata Academy of Fine Arts is said to be one of the most prominent art galleries in India. Famous paintings like Girl with a Pitcher and A Winter’s Evening by Rabindra Nath Tagore are showcased here.

2. The Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh

Opened for the public in 1968, The Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh portrays a variety of artistic creations like Indian miniature paintings, contemporary art, portraits, etc.

3. Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai

Located in Southern Mumbai, the Jehangir Art Gallery was established in 1952 by Sir Cowasji Jehangir. The gallery houses the works of some prominent artists like MF Hussain and SH Raza.

4. National Gallery of Modern Art, Bangalore

The National Gallery of Modern Art, Bangalore, is one of the newest museums in India established in 2009. The art gallery features over 500 paintings from both traditional and modern genres.

5. National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi

Established in 1954, the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi is an initiative to promote art by the government of India. Famous paintings like Frozen Porcupine and Smoking Donkey by Karl Antao and Man with Bouquet of Plastic Flower by Bhupen Khakhar are showcased here.

6. Aakriti Art Gallery, Kolkata and Delhi

Founded in 2005, Aakriti Art Gallery has evolved into one of the most famous modern art galleries in the country. Presently operating in two cities, Kolkata and New Delhi, Aakriti Art Gallery features modern and contemporary paintings.

7. The Art Heritage Gallery

Established in 1977, this art gallery aims to promote Indian contemporary paintings and artworks. The Art Heritage Gallery in New Delhi also hosts various educational programs, talks, debates, etc with the vision to promote and educate the public about contemporary art.

8. Government Museum, Chennai

Founded in 1851, the Government Museum located in Chennai is the second oldest museum and art gallery in India. The National Art Gallery, which is a part of the museum, features paintings from the Rajput and Mughal eras along with modern paintings.

9. Indian Museum, Kolkata

Established in 1814, Kolkata’s Indian Museum is known for featuring heritage paintings and artworks by artists from various parts of India. The art gallery of the museum is divided into four sections featuring paintings from different eras and genres.

10. National Museum, New Delhi

The National Museum in New Delhi, established in 1949, features the biggest collection of miniature paintings in India. Paintings by artists from various parts of the nation are showcased here including the ones by Rajasthan, Sikh and Kashmiri artists.