President Murmu Honours Artists at Lalit Kala Awards 2026

President of India Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi Awards to winning visual artists in New Delhi on October 21, 2026. The national ceremony honored exceptional creations from the 65th National Exhibition of Art.

During the event, President Murmu also felicitated the Grand Prize winners and Honourable Mentions of the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026. The gathering celebrated India's rich artistic diversity, cultural identity, and contemporary creative evolution.

President Murmu’s Vision: Art as the Mirror of Society

In her keynote address, President Murmu emphasized that art extends far beyond aesthetic beauty on canvas or carved stone. She noted that visual art preserves historical memories, captures present realities, and projects collective aspirations for the future.

Key Priorities Highlighted by the President:

1. Support for Traditional Craftsmen: Rural and tribal artists preserve invaluable ancestral techniques. They require direct access to advanced tools and national exhibition platforms.
2. Technological Empowerment: Introducing traditional creators to digital media and modern techniques expands their global audience reach.
3. Financial Security and Market Links: Artists require stable livelihoods. Connecting creators directly with buyers and art collectors transforms creative passion into sustainable careers.
4. Democratizing Art Access: Educational institutions and public squares must feature art installations, moving creative expressions beyond closed galleries.

Spotlighting the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026

The ceremony gave special prominence to printmaking through the 3rd Print Biennale India 2026. Printmaking allows creators to transfer intricate designs onto paper, wood, and metal plates, creating rich visual textures.

By felicitating the Grand Prize winners, the Lalit Kala Akademi reaffirmed its commitment to promoting specialized print media alongside traditional painting and sculpture.

Role of the Lalit Kala Akademi in Shaping Indian Culture

Operating under the Ministry of Culture, the Lalit Kala Akademi serves as India's apex national academy of fine arts. Founded to promote Indian visual art globally, the institution regularly hosts national exhibitions, offers research scholarships, and organizes international bienniales.

The 2026 awards framework focused heavily on empowering emerging talent. By bridging traditional folk art with modern digital mediums, the Akademi helps preserve India's cultural heritage under the Viksit Bharat framework.

Overview: Key Event Parameters