Photo credit: Instagram/artistnileshvede
NEW DELHI: Maharashtra painter Nilesh Ravindra Vede has been conferred with the National Award from the Lalit Kala Akademi, for his painting “I, Me and Myself.”The award was presented by President Droupadi Murmu during the 64th National Exhibition of Art in New Delhi. The event was also attended by Union minister of culture and tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.Out of 5,922 artworks submitted from across the country, Vede’s painting was among those selected for the award. His work combines philosophy, symbolism, and metaphor, reflecting human emotions and the realities of life.Reacting to the honour, Vede said, “I feel that this award has been given not to a single painting of mine, but to my entire artistic journey. I dedicate this honour to every individual who, knowingly or unknowingly, has trusted my art and supported me throughout my artistic journey. I do not see this merely as an award, but as a source of inspiration. To uphold the dignity of this recognition, I will continue my artistic pursuit with dedication. As a responsible citizen, I remain committed to working for society and contributing to the further enrichment of Indian art and culture.” President Murmu, in her address, said there was a need to strengthen India’s cultural identity along with its economic growth. “Art is a powerful medium to enrich cultural heritage and make society more sensitive,” she said. Union minister Shekhawat said, “Art and creativity reflect the identity of a nation and strengthen the national spirit when they become a part of homes, schools, and public spaces.”Vede has earlier received scholarships from the ministry of culture and a state-level award from the Prafulla Dahanukar Foundation. He has held six solo exhibitions and participated in more than 30 group shows, including at Mumbai’s Jehangir Art Gallery. His work has been exhibited internationally, and he has attended over 30 national and international art camps.Nilesh’s paintings are part of several private and institutional collections in India and abroad.