The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, presented the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi awards to selected artists at the 65th National Exhibition of Art in New Delhi today.
The event also witnessed the felicitation of Grand Prize winners and Honourable Mentions from the 3rd Print Biennale India, 2026.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu described the ceremony as a tribute to India’s rich artistic heritage, cultural diversity, and contemporary vision. She highlighted that art transcends physical mediums like canvas and stone, serving instead as a mirror to our culture, collective memories, and future aspirations.
“Art enables us to perceive and understand our times and society from a fresh perspective,” President Murmu noted, emphasizing the importance of equipping traditional artists in remote regions with modern technological training and contemporary techniques to compete on global platforms.
Bridging Creativity and Commerce
Recognising the economic realities faced by creators today, the President stressed that artists need more than just creative freedom; they require robust financial backing, wider market accessibility, and direct connections with collectors. She expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the Lalit Kala Akademi and the Ministry of Culture in promoting the sale of indigenous artworks.
Taking Art to the Masses
Concluding her address, President Murmu advocated for the democratisation of art, urging stakeholders to move art out of elite galleries and into schools, universities, and everyday public spaces. She made a passionate appeal to nurture the next generation of creators, ensuring that young and emerging talents receive the resources needed to explore new mediums and expand their creative potential.
