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ShareMumbai: The 19th and early 20th century renowned Russian artists (father-son duo) Nikolai and Svetoslav Roerich's photo reproductions on canvases are a visual treat. Since the duo travelled frequently along the Himalayan border their paintings depict nature and the Himalayan range in all its splendor, Indian culture albeit infused with loads of Tibetan influences. Nikolai created almost 7,000 paintings, several literary works, frescos and mosaics.
Says Alexander Mantytsky, consul general of the Russia Federation in Mumbai, "Mountains in their work stood for spiritual ascent, approach towards harmony, light and eternity." In India, Nikolai continued to work on the Himalayan series which included over 2,000 paintings in his entire collection of 7,000 canvases -- earning him the title 'Master of the Mountains' by art critics. His other series include Shambala, Chingis-Khan, Kuluta, Kullu, Saint Mountains, Tibet, Ashrams, etc.
It is said that Nikolai first travelled to India purely propelled by the artistic urge of his soul. "India with its rich legends, fables and exotic nature has always attracted Russian artists to its land, and Nikolai was no exception," says Mantytsky. He settled in the Kullu Manali Valley, being overwhelmed with its lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. "He finally found his soul's quest when he got there," adds Mantytsky.
Nikolai founded the Urusvati institute in Kullu which has grown in stature for its archeological, natural sciences, ancient Tibetan medicine, pharmacopoeia and cancer research studies.
For his outstanding achievements in the field of culture,Svetoslav won various awards like the Padma Bhushan, Friendship of Peoples, J Nehru International Award, Knight of the Bulgarian Order of Kirill and Mephody, among several others.
The artists were Russians by descent but it was in India that they really found their roots.
Catch the exhibition at Curator's Gallery, Kala Godha, on till November 12.
