Raja Ravi Varma Painting Fetches Record Price at Auction

A painting by renowned artist Raja Ravi Varma has fetched an extraordinary price at auction. His iconic artwork depicting Yashoda and Krishna was sold for approximately ₹167 crore, marking the first time an Indian artwork has achieved such a valuation. The sale is being regarded as a new world record in the art auction space.

The oil painting was acquired by Cyrus S. Poonawalla, founder of the Serum Institute of India, during the “Arts Spring Live Auction” held recently. The artwork is believed to have been created in the 1890s, a period when Ravi Varma was at the peak of his artistic career. The depiction of Yashoda with young Krishna has long captivated art enthusiasts and continues to be one of his most admired works. Dr. Poonawalla expressed his delight in owning the masterpiece, calling it a matter of great pride and describing it as a piece of national heritage. Previously, a painting titled “Gram Yatra” by M. F. Husain had set a benchmark by selling for ₹118 crore at auction.