Jehangir Sabavala: Inimitable painter’s death leaves void in art world

People close to him unanimously vouch for his enthusiasm for life. So much so that he'd never complain, despite being severely ill.

Renowned artist from Mumbai, Jehangir Sabavala, who had been suffering from lung cancer, passed away on Friday due to respiratory failure. He is survived by his wife Shirin and daughter Aafreed.

Eminent curator Ranjit Hoskote, who spoke to Sabavala two days ago, said the artist has been an important part of his life.

"He is one of the greatest post-colonial painters. He did not alter his concerns and committed himself to exploring his vision. He was an old school person; complaining was never his style. In fact, he  always showed concern for  other people's problems."

Dinesh Vazirani, CEO and co-founder of Saffronart, remembered his friend and mentor with pride. "He was a true gentleman, kind, encouraging and full of life. I spoke to him about two weeks ago but because he was undergoing treatment he couldn't talk properly. Shirin told me that he was happy to receive invitation for our auction wherein we included his paintings."

Madhusudan Kumar, gallery owner of Artists' Centre, said: "As a contemporary of the progressive artist group, he was an institution in himself. We used to have discussions on cubism. He looked pale, when I met him last, but he had a great soul. He was always warm and full of youthfulness."

Manvinder Davar, India Fine Art gallery owner, has known him for 15 years and shares a rare incident from one of their meetings.

"He had this diary where he would jot down every single detail of his paintings. Years ago one of my clients, who bought his painting, wanted to authenticate it. I took it to him and discovered that the grill in the painting was one that was right there in his house!"