In today’s art world, dominated by big names and high-profile auctions, one artist’s quiet yet powerful voice has persisted, resonating across generations.

In a recent Architectural Digest India video, Sonam Kapoor gave viewers a glimpse of her maximalist Mumbai home, revealing a cherished possession: a painting by Badri Narayan, gifted to her by her father-in-law. “It’s very unusual to find such a big work of his, and I am very blessed to have one of these,” she shared, bringing renewed attention to this often-overlooked master of Indian art.

Art curator Ina Puri fondly remembers her first encounter with Narayan’s work, recalling, “This was the first artist I had in my collection. It was a Badri Narayan tile that I got when I was in university. I happened to visit Bombay and saw this exhibition at Jahangir. I got this for 450 rupees, and I still value it.”

Narayan’s art is celebrated for its authenticity and its ability to weave narratives into visual forms that are accessible to all. Puri explains, “It’s his take on mythology. His art is about inclusivity, using these mythological stories in a way that is personal and true to his narrative.”

What sets Narayan apart is his unwavering commitment to his style. While contemporaries like M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza, and F.N. Souza explored various artistic movements, Narayan remained true to his narrative approach. Puri notes, “He stayed true to his style, focusing on narrative rather than venturing into abstract or installation art.”

Narayan’s background as a storyteller deeply influenced his art. Puri reminisces, “He was actually a storyteller. I’ve attended sessions where he would tell stories. It wasn’t just about the stories themselves, but the figures and compositions he created were so significant.”

His artistic range was remarkable, capable of creating both tiny, almost miniature works, and larger paintings. Yet, despite his talent, Narayan’s work didn’t always receive the recognition it deserved during his lifetime. Puri laments, “Sadly, when he passed, I heard that he was struggling and needed support. He didn’t receive the recognition he deserved while he was alive.”

Today, there’s a growing appreciation for Narayan’s contributions to Indian art. Puri expresses hope for the future, saying, “It would be wonderful to see an exhibition of Badri Narayan’s work. I can’t remember the last time I saw one. It would be great for children today to see his work because they would connect with it and understand it.”

As we rediscover Badri Narayan’s legacy, his timeless narratives continue to resonate, proving that true art transcends trends and speaks directly to the human spirit. His story is a reminder that sometimes the most profound voices in art are those that remain steadfast in their vision, quietly weaving tales that connect us all.