Renowned artist of post-independence era Satish Gujral passes away at 94

Architect, painter and muralist, Padmavibhushan Satish Gujral breathed his last on March 26, 2020, Thursday; he was 94.

Among the most noteworthy artists of post-independence India, Satish Gujral, passed away on Thursday, March 26. He passed away late in the night at his Delhi home, aged 94. Gujral is survived by wife Kiran, son Mohit, daughter-in-law Feroze and grandchildren.

“The noted painter and architect passed away peacefully at 10:30 last night in his home. He died of old age”, told the artist’s nephew and Rajya Sabha MP, Naresh Gujral to PTI.

Born on December 25, 1925 in Jhelum, Pakistan, Gujral was renowned for his proficiency in multiple art mediums, including sculpting, painting, graphic designing, architecture as well as poetry. He was the younger brother of India’s late Prime Minister, Inder Kumar Gujral.

Having been brought up at the time of partition, a lot of his artworks have a bearing of the turbulence and conflict that engulfed the then two countries of India and Pakistan. Some of his most recognised artworks are Days of Glory and Mourning en masse, in which he could channelise his inner anguish. By far these are among the most deeply affecting art works depicting the tragedy of partition. His other noteworthy work include the designing of Belgium Embassy in New Delhi; which was selected by the International forum of Architects as one of the thousand best built buildings in 20^th century.

Caption: Embassy of Belgium, New Delhi. Source: pinterest.comAlso known for his murals and public art, his popular works include the Alphabet mural of Delhi High Court and the mural for Punjab Agricultural University. In 1952, Gujral received a scholarship to study at the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, this too contributed to the colour and character of his work.

Not many would be aware of the artists Ahmedabad connection. Back in the 50s Gujral created a majestic mural for the facade of ‘Roopalee’ Cinema, which is now replaced by a commercial real estate. Sadly the mural could not be preserved for younger generations to see and enjoy.

Gujral received the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award of India in 1999

Conveying his grief, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted today morning:

 “Satish Gujaral Ji was versatile and multifaceted. He was admired for his creativity as well as the determination with which he overcame adversity. His intellectual thirst took him far and wide yet he remained attached with his roots. Saddened by his demise. Om Shanti”

Team CY pays tributes to the legendary artist.