National Gallery of Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in New Delhi was officially inaugurated on March 29, 1954, by Vice-President Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. It is housed in the historic Jaipur House, which was once the palatial residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Designed by Sir Arthur Blomfield, the building is a stunning example of colonial architecture, featuring a butterfly-shaped layout and a central dome that reflects the grandeur of the Lutyens' Delhi era. The gallery was established with the primary objective of promoting modern art and providing a platform for the preservation of India's changing artistic heritage. Its inception marked a significant shift in the Indian cultural landscape, moving away from traditional forms toward a more contemporary and global aesthetic. Over the decades, the NGMA has expanded its collection to include over 17,000 works, ranging from sculptures and paintings to early photography and experimental installations. Today, the NGMA serves as a premier institution for modern art in India, showcasing the works of the 'Nine Gems' of Indian art, including Amrita Sher-Gil, Raja Ravi Varma, and the Tagore brothers. The collection chronicles the evolution of Indian art from 1850 onwards, capturing the political, social, and cultural transformations of the nation. Through its rotating exhibitions and permanent displays, the gallery continues to bridge the gap between India's rich artistic past and its dynamic contemporary future.