Hyderabad: Renowned art historian B. N. Goswamy bid farewell on November 17, 2023, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and literature. His illustrious career spanned decades, earning him accolades and respect within academic circles for his insightful contributions to the understanding of Indian art.
Known for his scholarship on Indian miniature paintings, especially Pahari painting, Goswamy authored over 25 books on arts and culture. His groundbreaking work on the Pahari school of painting, which flourished in the Himalayan foothills from the 16th to the 19th centuries, set him apart. Additionally, he made significant contributions to the study of Mughal and Rajput painting.
Goswamy, a prolific writer and lecturer, was a regular contributor to art journals and newspapers, delivering lectures worldwide. Honored with the Padma Shri in 1980 and the Padma Bhushan in 2007, he held a distinguished place in the Indian art scene. As a member of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) and the Lalit Kala Akademi, India's national academy of art, he played a vital role in shaping the discourse around art.
The news of Goswamy's passing in Chandigarh at the age of 90 on November 17, 2023, was met with sadness. He is survived by his wife, Karuna, and two children.
Some of B. N. Goswamy's most notable achievements include pioneering the study of Pahari painting, authoring over 25 books on Indian arts and culture, receiving the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards, and serving as a member of influential art organizations. A highlight of his career was his ability to seamlessly connect various facets of Indian culture, exemplified in his final work, "The Indian Cat: Stories, Paintings, Poetry, and Proverbs."
