After nearly a decade-long closure, The Academy of Fine Arts has joyously reopened its esteemed Rabindra Galleries. The reopening, which coincides with Rabindranath Tagore’s death anniversary on August 7, marks a significant cultural milestone. The galleries had been shuttered since 2015 for essential structural maintenance, but they are now welcoming visitors once again, offering a chance to delve into an unparalleled collection of original works and personal artifacts related to the great bard.
The grand reopening was marked by a special ceremony, inaugurated by the renowned artist Jogen Chowdhury. In a remarkable display of spontaneity and skill, Chowdhury crafted an acrylic portrait of Tagore in just 40 minutes upon his arrival at the event. This gesture highlighted the deep respect and admiration that the art community holds for Tagore, whose contributions to literature and art continue to inspire.
The Rabindra Galleries’ collection, largely donated by Lady Ranu Mookerjee, founder of the Academy of Fine Arts, is a treasure trove of masterpieces. The exhibits include notable works from the Tagore family, the legendary Nandalal Bose, and the celebrated filmmaker Satyajit Ray. Each piece in the collection reflects the rich artistic heritage and creative spirit of these distinguished figures, offering visitors a window into the world of one of India’s most revered cultural icons.
During the inauguration, Gautam Mohan Chakraborty, former commissioner of Kolkata police and an esteemed guest, shared his thoughts on the gallery’s significance. “It’s an invaluable asset for the city and the country,” Chakraborty remarked. “Showcasing original paintings by Rabindranath Tagore and other eminent contemporary artists, it offers a unique opportunity for people to connect with India’s artistic heritage. We invite not only our fellow citizens but also international visitors to come and experience these timeless treasures.”
The reopening of the Rabindra Galleries is not just a return to normalcy but a reaffirmation of the Academy’s commitment to preserving and celebrating artistic excellence. The galleries, which once served as a vibrant hub for art lovers and scholars, are set to enhance the visitor experience with systematic arrangements of the artwork and a documented history that delves into the roots of art. This planned upgrade aims to provide a richer, more immersive experience for all who visit.
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Lady Ranu Mookerjee’s contribution to the gallery has been instrumental in shaping its legacy. Reflecting on her long-standing association with the gallery, a spokesperson noted, “I still remember my first exhibition here in 1963, inaugurated by Lady Ranu Mookerjee herself. Since then, I’ve been a regular admirer of this place. We’re now looking forward to enhancing the visitor experience further, with improved arrangements and a more comprehensive historical narrative that highlights the significance of the art on display.”
As the Rabindra Galleries open their doors once again, the public is invited to explore this treasure trove of artistic brilliance. The reopening not only celebrates the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore but also reaffirms the Academy of Fine Arts’ role in nurturing and preserving India’s rich artistic heritage.
Visitors can expect an enriching experience as they walk through the galleries, surrounded by the evocative works of Tagore and his contemporaries. The Academy’s dedication to maintaining and showcasing these invaluable artifacts underscores its mission to promote and preserve the cultural legacy of one of India’s greatest artistic minds.
For art enthusiasts, scholars, and the general public alike, the reopening of the Rabindra Galleries presents an unmissable opportunity to engage with the timeless works of Rabindranath Tagore and to celebrate the enduring legacy of Indian art.
