On his 175th birth anniversary, remembering the life and legacy of Raja Ravi Varma Considered the father of modern Indian art, Varma was arguably the first to successfully combine Indian iconography and portraiture with Western realism and techniques. He was one of 20th century India’s earliest cultural ambassadors. [...]
About Us
Raja Ravi Varma Heritage Foundation is a not-for-profit institution that works to preserve and promote the artistic legacy of one of India’s greatest artists. Started by his great, great granddaughter Bharani Thirunal Rukmini Bayi Tampuran in 2015, the Foundation’s activities are ably guided and managed by an expert panel of external and internal advisors, in the field of art, history, conservation and industry.
The Foundation is the only institution in the world that works in the space of research, documentation, authentication and education with regard to Ravi Varma and his art works. The Foundation works with public and private museums, collectors and any collections that house or own works by this incredible artist.
Significance of the logo
The name Varma is derived from the original Sanskrit word “Varman” which means “armour” or “protection” or “shield”. The name Varma came to be used to refer to a Chief or Protector of an exclusive clan. The members of this clan were the Kshatriyas. The ancient source from where the people who belonged to this clan is believed to have originated somewhere in Central Asia. A King from Southern India, notably present day Kerala, by the name of Varma also finds mention in the Mahabharata war.
Raja Ravi Varma Heritage Foundation, with its new logo, embraces Varma or the Shield in an appropriate and distinct manner. The intent behind the Foundation’s logo is in keeping with our endeavour to protect his artistic legacy and the creative direction that Ravi Varma showed during his lifetime.
The presence of the Trident in our logo is significant in that it is an invaluable accessory to the protective armour or shield.
While we have embraced a new logo which is bright, bold and beautiful, our principles at the Foundation remain unchanged and firmly entrenched in Ravi Varma’s ideals. Our endeavour is to preserve and promote the rich legacy of one of India’s greatest artists.
- Rukmini Varma
Chairperson, Raja Ravi Varma Heritage Foundation
Our Objectives
Briefly, these are to:
1. Increase awareness of his work through lecture series, exhibitions, short films and books
2. Promote his legacy and document his influences on jewellery, textiles and on other artists, through exhibits and talks
3. Provide valid authentication for his original works created in oil
