Daily Current Affairs 08 July 2026 – IAS Current Affairs

Current Affairs 08 July 2026 focuses on the Prelims-Mains perspective. Major events are :

Char Kaman And Charminar Heritage

Source: Indian Express
GS I: Indian Culture – Architecture from ancient to modern times.

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Historical Background
3. Charminar and Char Kaman
4. Urban Planning Significance
5. Restoration Project

Why in the News?

The Telangana Government has announced a restoration and conservation project for the historic Char Kaman in Hyderabad.

News in Brief

• The project aims to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of the four ceremonial arches surrounding the Charminar.
• Restoration will focus on structural conservation, beautification, and protection from urban degradation.
• The initiative seeks to strengthen heritage conservation, cultural identity, and tourism in Hyderabad’s historic core.

What is Char Kaman?

• Char Kaman, meaning “Four Arches” in Persian/Urdu, is a group of four monumental ceremonial gateways surrounding the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad, Telangana.
• These arches were built around 1594 CE during the reign of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty and the founder of Hyderabad.
• The structures formed an integral part of the planned capital city and reflected the dynasty’s vision of combining urban planning, architecture, commerce, and royal administration.
• Even today, Char Kaman remains one of the finest examples of medieval Deccan architecture and urban design.

Historical Background

• The Qutb Shahi Dynasty ruled the Golconda Sultanate from 1518 to 1687 CE.
• Founded by Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk, the dynasty initially ruled from Golconda Fort before shifting the capital to the newly established city of Hyderabad under Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah.
• The last ruler, Abul Hasan Tana Shah, was defeated by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1687, bringing the dynasty to an end.
• The Qutb Shahis made remarkable contributions to Indian history by promoting Indo-Persian architecture, encouraging Telugu, Persian, and Urdu literature, and transforming Hyderabad into one of India’s earliest planned medieval cities.
• Their monuments, including Charminar, Golconda Fort, and Char Kaman, continue to represent the cultural richness of the Deccan region.

Charminar and Char Kaman

• The Charminar, constructed between 1589 and 1591, was commissioned by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and is traditionally believed to commemorate the end of a devastating plague.
• It became the focal point of the newly established city and remains Hyderabad’s most recognizable landmark.
• Surrounding the Charminar are the Char Kaman, which served as ceremonial gateways leading to the royal city.
• Rather than defensive fortifications, these arches symbolized grandeur, administrative planning, and royal authority while connecting important roads and marketplaces.

The Four Arches of Char Kaman

• The four gateways are strategically positioned around the Charminar.
  • Machli Kaman (North) – Named after the fish emblem of the Qutb Shahis, representing prosperity, good fortune, and royal authority.
  • Kali Kaman (South)  – Also known as the Charminar Arch, it formed an important southern entrance to the city.
  • Sher-e-Batil Kaman or Kaman Sher Dil (West) – Its name signifies “Lion-hearted” or “Destroyer of Evil,” symbolizing courage and strength.
  • Naqqar Khana Kaman (East) – Associated with the royal drum house where ceremonial drums were played during important state occasions.

Urban Planning Significance

• Char Kaman highlights Hyderabad’s sophisticated urban planning.
• The Charminar formed the city’s central point, while the four arches marked the principal roads extending in different directions.
• The royal palace complex was located west of Charminar, whereas commercial markets, residential quarters, and administrative buildings developed around these ceremonial gateways.
• This radial city plan reflected Persian influences while accommodating local cultural and economic needs, making Hyderabad one of the earliest examples of planned urban development in India.

Architectural Features

• The Char Kaman reflects the distinctive Indo-Islamic and Persian architectural style of the Deccan.
• Built primarily using granite and lime mortar, the arches are characterized by their monumental proportions, symmetrical design, elegant proportions, decorative stucco work, and ornamental detailing.
• Unlike city gates constructed for military defence, the Char Kaman functioned as ceremonial gateways that enhanced the aesthetic appeal and spatial organization of the capital.

Cultural Importance

• The Char Kaman remains an enduring symbol of Hyderabad’s historical identity.
• It represents the architectural excellence of the Qutb Shahi rulers and showcases the rich cultural interactions between Persian and indigenous traditions.
• As part of Hyderabad’s historic core, it attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists each year and contributes significantly to the city’s heritage tourism.
• It also illustrates the evolution of medieval Deccan urban planning and architectural innovation.

Restoration Project

• The Telangana Government has undertaken a restoration and conservation project to safeguard the Char Kaman from the effects of age and urban pressures.
• The project focuses on structural repairs, conservation of original architectural features, improving the overall condition of the monuments, preserving historical authenticity, and protecting the structures from pollution and urban degradation.
• Restoration has become necessary due to air pollution, heavy traffic vibrations, weathering, encroachments, and inadequate maintenance, all of which have accelerated the deterioration of these centuries-old monuments.

Challenges in Heritage Conservation

• Conserving heritage monuments in rapidly expanding cities presents several challenges.
• These include rapid urbanisation, increasing pollution, illegal encroachments, unregulated commercial activities, inadequate financial resources, tourism pressure, climate-related deterioration, and the absence of regular scientific maintenance.

Way Forward

• The conservation of Char Kaman requires a comprehensive and scientific approach.
• Restoration should employ traditional materials and conservation techniques while ensuring structural stability.
• Strengthening heritage-sensitive urban planning, removing encroachments, encouraging community participation, promoting sustainable tourism, undertaking digital documentation of monuments, and creating public awareness about heritage conservation will help preserve these monuments for future generations.

Conclusion

The restoration of Char Kaman demonstrates how protecting historical monuments can strengthen cultural identity while supporting sustainable urban development.

Key Takeaway

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding Char Kaman:

1. Char Kaman consists of four ceremonial arches surrounding the Charminar in Hyderabad.
2. It was constructed during the reign of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah.
3. Machli Kaman is located on the southern side of Charminar.
4. Char Kaman is associated with the planned urban design of Hyderabad.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: A

Mains Practice Question

Q. Heritage conservation is essential for preserving cultural identity while ensuring sustainable urban development. Discuss. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

Answer Enrichment – The restoration of Hyderabad’s Char Kaman illustrates how scientific conservation of historic monuments can preserve cultural heritage, strengthen urban identity, and promote sustainable tourism amid rapid urbanisation.

India–Indonesia Strategic Partnership: PM Visit Outcomes And Agreements

Source: PIB
GS II: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and Agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Major Outcomes
3. Major Announcements
4. Challenges
5. Way Forward

Why in the News?

Prime Minister’s visit to Indonesia (July 2026) marked a significant step in strengthening the India–Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

News in Brief

• India and Indonesia signed 14 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs)/Agreements covering defence, maritime security, space, health, agriculture, technology, and critical minerals.
• Six major announcements were made, including cooperation in cultural heritage conservation, digital commerce (ONDC-based ION), education, and maritime information sharing.
• The visit reinforced cooperation under India’s Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific vision, enhancing regional connectivity, economic resilience, and strategic security.

Major Outcomes

• Space Cooperation – Extended the Framework Agreement on cooperation in the peaceful exploration and use of outer space.
  • Covers satellite applications, remote sensing, Earth observation, and scientific research.
  • Promotes collaboration between the space agencies of both countries.
• Medical Products Regulation – MoU signed between Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) of India and Indonesia’s BPOM.
  • CDSCO is India’s national regulatory authority for pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
  • Aims to harmonize regulatory standards for medicines and medical products.
  • Facilitates pharmaceutical trade and regulatory cooperation.
  • Improves access to safe, effective, and quality medicines.
• Minerals and Steel Supply Chain – Cooperation in exploration and processing of critical minerals.
  • Promotes technology sharing in steel manufacturing.
  • Strengthens resilient and diversified steel supply chains.
  • Reduces dependence on vulnerable global supply chains.
• Agriculture and Allied Sectors – Cooperation in agricultural research and innovation.
  • Joint initiatives to improve food security.
  • Collaboration in livestock development and fisheries.
  • Promotes sustainable farming and modern agricultural practices.
• Maritime Safety and Security  – Extended the existing maritime safety and security agreement.
  • Focus on maritime security, anti-piracy operations, and search & rescue.
  • Enhances freedom of navigation.
  • Enhances capacity building and information sharing.
  • Strengthens cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Disaster Management – MoU signed between NDMA (India) and Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency.
  • Exchange of best practices in disaster preparedness and response.
  • Cooperation on early warning systems and disaster resilience.
  • Capacity building and training for disaster management professionals.
• Telecommunications – Cooperation in advanced telecommunication technologies.
  • Promotes digital infrastructure development.
  • Encourages innovation in telecom services.
  • Strengthens digital connectivity between both countries.
• Research, Technology and Innovation – Promotes joint scientific research projects.
  • Encourages innovation and technology transfer.
  • Supports academic and institutional collaboration.
  • Strengthens research ecosystems in emerging technologies.
• Health Workforce Collaboration – Implementation Agreement on healthcare workforce cooperation.
  • Promotes skill development and professional training.
  • Facilitates mobility of healthcare professionals.
  • Strengthens healthcare capacity in both countries.
• Electoral Cooperation – MoU signed between the Election Commission of India (ECI) and Indonesia’s General Elections Commission (KPU).
  • Exchange of electoral best practices.
  • Capacity building in election management.
  • Strengthens democratic institutions and electoral governance.
• BrahMos Missile Cooperation – Expanded bilateral defence cooperation.
  • Enhances maritime deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Promotes India’s defence exports under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
  • Strengthens strategic defence partnership.
• Air-to-Air Missile Cooperation – Collaboration in advanced air-to-air missile systems.
  • Enhances defence technology cooperation.
  • Promotes defence industrial partnership.
  • Improves strategic and military capabilities.
• Steel Joint Venture – Joint venture between Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) and Krakatau Steel.
  • Establishment of a stainless-steel slab manufacturing facility in Indonesia.
  • Strengthens industrial cooperation and manufacturing partnership.
  • Improves regional steel supply chain resilience.
• Rare Earth Magnets
  • Cooperation for development and manufacturing of rare earth magnets.
  • Supports clean energy technologies and strategic industries.
  • Reduces dependence on external suppliers.

Major Announcements

• Restoration of Prambanan Temple – India will assist in the conservation and restoration of the Prambanan Temple Complex, Yogyakarta.
  • Strengthens India’s cultural diplomacy.
  • Reflects shared civilizational and historical ties.
  • Promotes heritage conservation cooperation.
• Indonesia Liaison Officer in IFC-IOR – Indonesia will deploy a Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR).
  • IFC-IOR is located in Gurugram and promotes maritime security through information sharing.
  • Enhances Maritime Domain Awareness.
  • Improves information sharing on maritime security.
• Supply of Wheat Seeds – India will supply 100 tonnes of DWR-162 wheat seeds.
  • Supports food security in Indonesia.
  • Strengthens agricultural cooperation.
  • Promotes seed technology collaboration.
• Tagore–Dewantara Year – Joint commemoration of the Tagore–Dewantara Year of Cultural and Educational Diplomacy.
  • Promotes educational exchanges.
  • Enhances cultural cooperation.
  • Strengthens people-to-people ties.
• IIM Bangalore Campus in Indonesia – Establishment of an IIM Bangalore branch campus at Singhasari SEZ.
  • Expands India’s educational diplomacy.
  • Promotes higher education collaboration.
  • Enhances academic exchanges between both countries.
• Indonesia Open Network (ION)
  • Launch of Indonesia Open Network (ION) based on India’s ONDC architecture.
  • Promotes open digital commerce.
  • Strengthens Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) cooperation.
  • Supports inclusive digital economy and MSMEs.

Challenges

• Growing geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific.
• Maritime security threats and illegal activities at sea.
• Vulnerabilities in global supply chains.
• Regulatory and implementation challenges for agreements.
• Balancing strategic cooperation with economic interests.
• Ensuring timely execution of signed MoUs.

Way Forward

• Ensure speedy implementation of all signed MoUs and agreements.
• Expand defence manufacturing and technology partnerships.
• Strengthen maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
• Deepen collaboration in critical minerals and clean energy technologies.
• Enhance digital connectivity through Digital Public Infrastructure.
• Promote greater cooperation in health, education, research, and innovation.
• Develop resilient regional value chains to improve economic security.
• Strengthen India–Indonesia cooperation for a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

Key Takeaway

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Questions

Consider the following statements regarding the outcomes of the Prime Minister’s visit to Indonesia:

1. Indonesia agreed to deploy a liaison officer at the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR).
2. The Indonesia Open Network (ION) is based on India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) architecture.
3. India announced assistance for restoration of the Borobudur Temple.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1and 3  only
(d) 3 only

Answer: (b)

Mains Practice Question

Q. “India–Indonesia relations have evolved from historical civilizational ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific.” Discuss the significance of the recent agreements signed during the Prime Minister’s visit in strengthening bilateral cooperation. (15 Marks)

Rettamalai Srinivasan

Source: PIB
GS I: Modern Indian History from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present – significant events, personalities, issues

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Who was Rettamalai Srinivasan?
3. Major Contributions
4. Ethical Values from Rettamalai Srinivasan

Why in the News?

The Vice President of India paid floral tributes to Rettamalai Srinivasan on his birth anniversary at Uparashtrapati Bhavan (7 July 2026).

News in Brief

• The Vice President described Rettamalai Srinivasan  as a great scholar and eminent social reformer.
• His lifelong struggle against untouchability and social discrimination was highlighted.
• The event emphasized the values of self-respect, equality, and human dignity.

Who was Rettamalai Srinivasan?

• Diwan Bahadur Rettamalai Srinivasan (1860–1945) was one of the earliest Dalit leaders, social reformers, journalists, and political activists in modern India.
• Born on 7 July 1860, Tamil Nadu.
• He dedicated his life to the eradication of caste-based discrimination and the empowerment of the Depressed Classes (now Scheduled Castes).
• Advocated equal rights, dignity, and political representation for marginalized communities.
• His contributions significantly shaped the social justice movement and influenced constitutional values in independent India.

Major Contributions

Fight Against Untouchability

• Rettamalai Srinivasan was among the earliest leaders to challenge the oppressive practice of untouchability.
• He believed that social equality was indispensable for national progress.
• Campaigned against caste discrimination and untouchability.
• Demanded equal access to education, public spaces, and employment.
• Worked to restore the dignity and self-respect of marginalized communities.
• Advocated equal treatment irrespective of caste or social status.

Founder of Paraiyar Mahajana Sabha (1891)

• In 1891, he established the Paraiyar Mahajana Sabha, one of the first organized movements for Dalit rights.
• Worked for the educational and socio-economic upliftment of the Depressed Classes.
• Raised demands for political representation and government employment.
• Mobilized marginalized communities to assert their rights peacefully.
• Strengthened collective social and political consciousness.

Journalism as an Instrument of Social Reform

• Recognizing the importance of public awareness, he founded the Tamil newspaper Paraiyan.
• Highlighted caste discrimination and social injustice.
• Created awareness about education and equal opportunities.
• Encouraged marginalized communities to fight for their rights.
• Used the press to influence public opinion and policymakers.

Political Representation

• Rettamalai Srinivasan believed that lasting social justice required political empowerment.
• Demanded adequate representation of the Depressed Classes in legislative bodies.
• Advocated participation of marginalized communities in governance.
• Pressed for constitutional safeguards to protect vulnerable sections.
• Emphasized inclusive decision-making in public institutions.

Participation in the Round Table Conferences (1930–32)

• He represented the interests of the Depressed Classes during the Round Table Conferences held in London.
• Highlighted issues of caste discrimination before the British Government.
• Worked alongside Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to secure political and constitutional safeguards.
• Advocated separate political representation and equal civil rights.
• Contributed to debates that later influenced constitutional protections for Scheduled Castes.

Ethical Values from Rettamalai Srinivasan

Human Dignity

• He believed that every individual deserves respect and equal treatment irrespective of caste, birth, or social background.
• Application: Promoting inclusive governance, protecting vulnerable groups, and ensuring respect for every citizen.

Equality

• He consistently advocated equal opportunities in education, employment, and public life.
• Application: Eliminating discrimination and ensuring fair access to public resources and institutions.

Social Justice

• His work focused on correcting historical injustices through social reform and political empowerment.
• Application: Formulating inclusive public policies and strengthening affirmative action for disadvantaged communities.

Compassion

• He empathized with the hardships faced by marginalized communities and devoted his life to their welfare.
• Application: Designing citizen-centric welfare schemes with sensitivity towards the needs of vulnerable sections.

Courage

• He challenged deeply entrenched caste hierarchies despite widespread opposition and social resistance.
• Application: Public servants should demonstrate moral courage while addressing injustice, corruption, and discrimination.

Self-Respect

• He encouraged marginalized communities to reject social stigma and assert their rights with confidence and dignity.
• Application: Empowering citizens through education, awareness, and capacity-building to participate actively in democracy.

Inclusive Leadership

• He united marginalized communities and advocated their participation in governance and decision-making.
• Application: Ensuring participatory governance, representation of weaker sections, and stakeholder consultation in policymaking.

Constitutional Morality

• Although he worked before the adoption of the Constitution, his ideals strongly resonate with constitutional principles of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity.
• Application: Upholding constitutional values above social prejudices, ensuring rule of law, and protecting the rights of all citizens.

Key Takeaways

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding Rettamalai Srinivasan:

1. He founded the Paraiyar Mahajana Sabha.
2. He participated in the Round Table Conferences.
3. He worked for the abolition of untouchability and upliftment of the Depressed Classes.
4. He was the founder of the Arya Samaj.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: B

Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss how the struggle against untouchability influenced the making of modern India’s constitutional framework. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

Answer Enrichment

• “Rettamalai Srinivasan’s contribution extends beyond social reform; it represents the evolution of India’s constitutional conscience. His struggle for equality, dignity, and representation remains central to achieving an inclusive and socially just democracy envisioned by the Constitution.”
• “Rettamalai Srinivasan demonstrated moral courage by challenging entrenched social inequalities through peaceful advocacy, institution-building, and public awareness. His life exemplifies ethical leadership rooted in justice, equality, and respect for human dignity.” (Ethics)

Afzal Pathan

Source: Indian Express
GS I: Indian Culture – Salient aspects of Art Forms from ancient to modern times.

Overview

1. News in Brief
2. Who was Afzal Pathan?
3. Modern Indian Art
4. Major Schools of Modern Indian Art
5. Characteristics of Modern Indian Art

Why in the News?

An exhibition showcasing the works of Afzal Pathan, a forgotten modernist painter from Madhya Pradesh, is being held at Triveni Kala Sangam, New Delhi.

News in Brief

• The exhibition has been organized by the Raza Foundation to revive interest in his contribution to Indian modern art.
• Around 40 paintings are on display, highlighting his unique abstract style.
• The event has renewed discussion on preserving India’s lesser-known artistic heritage.

Who was Afzal Pathan?

• Afzal Pathan (1936–2000) was a modernist painter from Dewas, Madhya Pradesh.
• He completed his Master’s degree in Drawing and Painting at Indore.
• He was among the pioneers of abstract art in central India.
• Though highly talented, he remained largely unknown during his lifetime.
• More than 5,000 artworks are preserved by his family.

Major Features of Afzal Pathan’s Art

• One of the early modernist painters from Madhya Pradesh, known for abstract art over realism.
• Used palette knives, cloth, and hand strokes instead of conventional brushes to create textured compositions.
• Focused on forms, colours, lines, and emotions rather than realistic subjects.
• Drew themes from birds, windows, landscapes, and rural life, presenting them in abstract forms.
• His works reflected simplicity, emotional depth, spirituality, and structural balance.
• His experimental approach gave him a distinct place in modern Indian art.

Modern Indian Art

• Modern Indian Art emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Indian artists began experimenting with new forms of artistic expression.
• It developed through the fusion of traditional Indian themes with Western artistic techniques introduced during the colonial period.
• While retaining India’s cultural identity, artists adopted modern ideas such as individual creativity, abstraction, realism, symbolism, and experimentation.
• The movement reflected India’s changing social, political, and cultural landscape, including the freedom struggle, nationalism, and post-independence aspirations.
• Modern Indian Art laid the foundation for contemporary Indian art and gained international recognition.

Major Schools of Modern Indian Art

Bengal School of Art

• Emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction against the Western academic style promoted by British art institutions.
• Led by Abanindranath Tagore, nephew of Rabindranath Tagore.
• Considered the first nationalist art movement in India.
• Inspired by Ajanta murals, Mughal miniatures, Rajput paintings, and Japanese wash techniques.
• Emphasized Indian spirituality, mythology, history, and cultural identity.
• Played an important role in strengthening the Swadeshi Movement by promoting indigenous artistic traditions.
• Important Artists
  • Abanindranath Tagore
  • Nandalal Bose
  • Asit Kumar Haldar
  • Kshitindranath Majumdar

Progressive Artists’ Group (PAG), 1947

• Founded in Mumbai in 1947, soon after India’s Independence.
• Sought to break away from both rigid academic realism and the revivalist style of the Bengal School.
• Promoted a modern, international artistic language while remaining rooted in Indian experiences.
• Encouraged artists to freely experiment with styles and themes.
• Founding Members
  • F.N. Souza
  • M.F. Husain
  • S.H. Raza
  • K.H. Ara
  • H.A. Gade
  • S.K. Bakre
• Contribution
  • Introduced Indian art to the global stage.
  • Popularized modern movements such as abstraction and expressionism.
  • Inspired several generations of contemporary Indian artists.

Characteristics of Modern Indian Art

• Artists explored new materials, techniques, and visual languages.
• Greater emphasis on emotions, colours, shapes, and ideas rather than realistic representation.
• Objects were depicted from multiple perspectives using geometric forms.
• Focused on conveying intense emotions rather than physical accuracy.
• Used symbols and metaphors to communicate philosophical and cultural ideas.
• Artists developed unique personal styles instead of following fixed artistic conventions.
• Combined Indian traditions with Western modernist techniques.
• Reflected nationalism, rural life, mythology, spirituality, urbanization, and human struggles.

Important Modern Indian Painters

Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906)

• Combined European oil painting techniques with Indian mythology.
• Famous for paintings of Hindu gods and goddesses.
• Popularized Indian religious art through oleographs (lithographic prints).

Abanindranath Tagore (1871–1951)

• Founder of the Bengal School of Art.
• Promoted Indian artistic traditions and cultural nationalism.
• Famous work: Bharat Mata.

Amrita Sher-Gil (1913–1941)

• Regarded as one of India’s greatest modern painters.
• Combined European modernism with Indian rural themes.
• Her works portrayed the lives of ordinary Indian people.

Nandalal Bose (1882–1966)

• Disciple of Abanindranath Tagore.
• Closely associated with Santiniketan.
• Designed the artwork for the original Constitution of India.
• Created iconic paintings inspired by India’s freedom movement.

Jamini Roy (1887–1972)

• Drew inspiration from Bengal folk art and Kalighat paintings.
• Used bold lines, bright colours, and simplified forms.
• Played a major role in popularizing indigenous artistic traditions.

M.F. Husain (1915–2011)

• Leading member of the Progressive Artists’ Group.
• Known for bold colours, dynamic figures, and themes from mythology, history, and everyday life.
• Internationally acclaimed as one of India’s greatest modern artists.

S.H. Raza (1922–2016)

• Renowned for abstract paintings.
• Developed the iconic Bindu series, symbolizing creation and cosmic energy.
• Blended Indian philosophy with modern abstract art.

Tyeb Mehta (1925–2009)

• One of India’s most celebrated modern painters.
• Known for minimalist compositions and powerful human figures.
• His works often explored violence, mythology, and existential themes.

F.N. Souza (1924–2002)

• Founder of the Progressive Artists’ Group.
• Famous for bold, expressive paintings and unconventional themes.
• Combined elements of Expressionism and Cubism, influencing modern Indian art globally.

Key Takeaway

UPSC Prelims and Mains Practice Question

Consider the following statements about the Raza Foundation:

1. It was established after the death of S.H. Raza.
2. It promotes Indian art and culture.
3. It functions as a constitutional body.

Choose the correct answer:

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Mains Practice Question

Q. “Discuss the significance of preserving India’s cultural and artistic heritage in strengthening national identity. Examine the role of governments, cultural institutions, and society in protecting lesser-known artists and art traditions.” (15 Marks, 250 Words)

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