End of an era: Art legend Jagdish Mittal’s legacy lives on

Hyderabad art gallery owners mourn the loss of Jagdish Mittal, a legendary figure in Indian art.

“Now, who do we turn to for guidance?,” is a common sentiment among art gallery owners in Hyderabad. A day after the passing away of art connoisseur and historian-collector Jagdish Mittal, aged 99, in Hyderabad, the art world is still coming to terms with the loss, bidding him a heartfelt farewell. A true legend, Mittalji (as he was fondly called) was a towering figure in Indian art, widely respected for his foresight and vision in inspiring and drawing people to the world of art.

Mittalji was a teacher, and a voice that encouraged members of the art fraternity. His legacy, however, will continue thanks to the Jagadish and Kamla Mittal Museum in the city.

Four gallery owners in Hyderabad pen heartfelt tributes to the grand old man of Indian art.

Bhargavi Gundala, Dhi Artspace and Dhi Contemporary

For 11 years, he was part of every show at Dhi Art Space in Ameerpet. But after we launched Dhi Contemporary in Madhapur, he could not attend as he had already turned 99. Whenever I started something new, I would seek his blessings. Now I don’t know what I should do?

He was a good mentor, always encouraging me . He would say, ‘Don’t imitate someone else’ or ‘I’m so happy you are doing the right thing.’ When I told him about hosting Dayanita Singh, he would ask about the works. Now, I have no one to share these things with. I will miss his presence and the way he would always place his hand on my head—it meant so much to me.

Avani Rao Gandra, Iconart Gallery