Indian art has reached a historic milestone. A famous painting by legendary Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma has been sold for a record-breaking amount, showing how valuable classic Indian artworks have become in the global art market. The historic sale has once again brought attention to Ravi Varma’s powerful paintings inspired by Indian mythology. The Raja Ravi Varma’s artwork Yashoda and Krishna has now become the most expensive Indian painting ever sold at an auction.
Record sale of Raja Ravi Varma’s Yashoda and Krishna painting:
The celebrated painting Raja Ravi Varma’s Yashoda and Krishna was sold for ₹167.2 crore at a major art auction in Mumbai. The painting was purchased by well-known Indian businessman Cyrus Poonawalla, founder of the Serum Institute of India. The artwork beautifully captures the tender moment between Mother Yashoda and the young Lord Krishna, reflecting love, warmth and devotion. Art experts say the painting stands out for its remarkable realism, expressive faces and detailed clothing, which were revolutionary during Ravi Varma’s time in the late 19th century.
The painting was auctioned by the Mumbai-based art house Pundole’s, which confirmed that the final price of ₹167.2 crore set a new record for any Indian artwork sold at auction. Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906) is widely regarded as one of India’s greatest painters. He became famous for bringing Hindu mythological characters such as Krishna, Lakshmi and Saraswati to life through realistic portraits, using techniques inspired by European oil painting. His works were also widely printed as affordable lithographs, helping Indian art reach ordinary homes across the country.
Today, Raja Ravi Varma’s paintings remain among the most admired and historically important works in Indian art, and this record-breaking sale highlights the growing global interest in India’s artistic heritage.
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