Rumale Art House offers insights into life of founder
The Hindu
Rumale Art House in Rajajinagar offers insights into the life of its founder who was a freedom fighter, social activist, editor and artist
It is often said that exploring your own backyard can reveal hidden treasures and this indeed rings true in a city like namma Bengaluru. Strolling around the by lanes of Rajajinagar, I discovered a gem — the Rumale Art House. Tucked in the midst of residential homes, this small yet engaging gallery is dedicated to the works of Rumale Chennabasaviah.
A multi-faceted personality in the true sense of the word, Rumale (1910-1988) was a freedom fighter, social activist and an editor apart from being an accomplished artist.
Housed in Rumale’s erstwhile residence, Rumale Art House is home to about 120 original works of the artist and is run by Sanjay Kabe whose father was a close friend of Rumale. “We have about 90 frames on display at any point. We keep alternating the canvases which keep the space fresh throughout the year,” says Sanjay.
Established in 1973, Rumale Art House is one of the city’s oldest art galleries.
Rumale who was born in 1910, played a significant role in the freedom struggle and was a participant in Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent resistance movement during 1930-1947. From 1947-1962, he was deeply involved in several nation building activities, including the setting up of the Seva Dal which trained the youth to serve the nation.
Twice, he was elected as a Member of the Legislative council for Mysore state and he also worked for the Kannada daily Tainadu as an editor. Yet, with all these engagements, art remained Rumale’s first love, having studied it at the Kalamandir School of Art at Chamarajendra Technical Institute in Mysore. He finally decided to pursue his passion from 1962 after bidding adieu to politics.
The nature and streetscapes of Bengaluru were the main subjects of Rumale’s works. He largely used water colours and oil paints and his works were characterised by fast, sharp brush strokes and a generous use of vibrant colour.
Ranya Rao, caught smuggling gold at Kempegowda International Airport, claimed innocence, but agencies suspect syndicate involvement.
World Sleep Day: More than 26% of professionals said they are getting less than six hours of sleep in the night, a problem even more pronounced among entrepreneurs.
Samuel Browne's botanical explorations in 17th-century Madras offer insights into traditional plant uses and changing flora over time.
CPS Abolition Movement protests in Dindigul urging State government to implement old pension scheme promised by DMK.
Union Finance Minister criticizes removal of Indian currency symbol '₹' in Tamil Nadu Budget 2025-26 documents, citing national unity concerns.
State government provides ₹100 crore to KMRL for Kakkanad extension, speeding up construction and addressing funding issues.
ED joins probe into gold smuggling case involving Kannada actor Ranya Rao, raids multiple locations in Bengaluru.
Bombay High Court questions Maharashtra government on failure to register FIR against police officers in custodial death case.
Uttar Pradesh Minister Sanjay Nishad faces backlash for suggesting those who have issues with Holi colours should leave the country.
Tamil Nadu sees improved Olive Ridley turtle nesting season with over 2.5 lakh eggs collected, efforts to protect marine life.
Speeding bus crash on Paramakudi-Madurai highway kills woman, injures 23; driver flees scene, causing critical injuries.
Transport Minister flags off private and KSRTC buses from Goshree islands to Kochi city, improving public transportation.
TSPSC clarifies Group-I Mains exam evaluation process, releases key statistics, and addresses misinformation, ensuring fairness and transparency.