The Love Story and Artistry of Ratan Parimoo and Naina Dalal Take Center Stage at NGMA

Mumbai : Mumbai's National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) has become a canvas for a beautiful narrative—one of art, history, and a quiet, enduring love. In an unprecedented move, the gallery, in partnership with Gallerie Splash, is hosting parallel retrospectives for two of India’s most revered artists, Ratan Parimoo and Naina Dalal. The joint inauguration of the shows by celebrated actor Anupam Kher not only drew a distinguished crowd of diplomats, curators, and artists but also underscored the profound personal story that has shaped their professional journeys.

Speaking at the event, Anupam Kher shared a heartfelt connection to the venue, revealing that as a young, struggling actor, he would frequent the NGMA for more than just its cool air. "I would come here to admire the works of great artists like Tyeb Mehta and Akbar Padamsee," he reminisced. "We were taught in drama school to learn from painters, and these visits were invaluable." His speech took a poignant turn as he praised the artists' "quiet strength" and their extraordinary love story. He painted a vivid picture for the audience—Parimoo, a young artist from Kashmir, and Dalal, from Vadodara, meeting and falling in love before embarking on a shared journey to London. The cinematic quality of their lives, working in separate rooms to express their unique visions before returning to the world with their shared art, deeply moved Kher, who expressed feeling "enriched" for having been part of the event.

The exhibitions themselves are a masterclass in modern Indian art. Padmashri Ratan Parimoo’s retrospective, titled Pioneer Abstractionist, offers a rare glimpse into his abstract works from 1958 to 1973. Featuring over 40 paintings, drawings, and prints, the show traces his early explorations of line inspired by ancient art to his embrace of gestural abstraction. Parimoo’s constant experimentation is evident, showcasing his role in redefining the language of painting in India.

Complementing this is Naina Dalal: The Silent Fire Within, a sweeping retrospective of over 150 works. A true pioneer among women artists, Dalal’s career is a testament to resilience and relentless creativity. Her journey from the Faculty of Fine Arts in Baroda to advanced studies in London and New York allowed her to master various printmaking techniques, from etching to lithography. Her art, characterized by a quiet intensity, delves into complex social realities, particularly the struggles and emancipation of women throughout history.

These parallel exhibitions are not just a display of exceptional artistic talent; they are a tribute to two lives devoted to art, scholarship, and truth. Visitors have a unique opportunity to witness this legacy firsthand until October 12, 2025, at the NGMA in Mumbai.