Ahead of the 175th birth anniversary fete of the legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma, who revolutionised Indian aesthetics and redefined art practice during the colonial era, the erstwhile royal family of Kilimanoor has urged the Union Ministry to posthumously confer the Bharat Ratna, the country’s highest civilian award, on Mr. Varma.
In a proposal submitted to G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister for Culture, the Kilimanoor Palace Trust said considering Mr. Varma’s creative excellence, path-breaking innovations, amazing artistic prowess and exceptional performance that carried India’s name and fame beyond its borders, the family members and the people who love him believe that he is the most eligible candidate for the highest civilian honour.
