PM mourns painter Tyeb Mehta's death

Calcutta News.Net
Thursday 2nd July, 2009

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday expressed grief over the 'sad demise' of noted painter Tyeb Mehta and said his death is a major loss to the art world.

'I am deeply grieved to learn of the sad demise of the renowned painter Tyeb Mehta,' the prime minister said in a statement here.

The 84-year-old artist was suffering from a heart ailment and died in Mumbai Thursday.

In 2002, his painting 'Celebration' was sold for Rs.15 million at a Christie's auction. It is the highest sum for an Indian painting at an international auction.

He received the Padma Bhushan award in 2007.

The prime minister said the 'celebrated artist... occupied a very prominent place in the progressive art movement of our country. His creative paintings won him wide acclaim and recognition at the international level.

'He was a source of inspiration to many artists and his memory and legacy will continue to endure,' he said, adding that his 'unfortunate passing away is a major loss to the art world'.

'On this sad occasion, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the members of his bereaved family and to his wide circle of friends, admirers and followers. I pray for peace of the departed soul,' the prime minister said.

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