End of an era: Art legend Jagdish Mittal’s legacy lives on

“Now, who do we turn to for guidance?,” is a common sentiment among art gallery owners in Hyderabad. A day after the passing away of art connoisseur and historian-collector Jagdish Mittal, aged 99, in Hyderabad, the art world is still coming to terms with the loss, bidding him a heartfelt farewell. A true legend, Mittalji (as he was fondly called) was a towering figure in Indian art, widely respected for his foresight and vision in inspiring and drawing people to the world of art.

Mittalji was a teacher, and a voice that encouraged members of the art fraternity. His legacy, however, will continue thanks to the Jagadish and Kamla Mittal Museum in the city.

Four gallery owners in Hyderabad pen heartfelt tributes to the grand old man of Indian art.

A good mentor

Bhargavi Gundala, Dhi Artspace and Dhi Contemporary

Jagdish Mittal with Bhargavi Gundala
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

For 11 years, he was part of every show at Dhi Art Space in Ameerpet. But after we launched Dhi Contemporary in Madhapur, he could not attend as he had already turned 99. Whenever I started something new, I would seek his blessings. Now I don’t know what I should do?

He was a good mentor, always encouraging me . He would say, ‘Don’t imitate someone else’ or ‘I’m so happy you are doing the right thing.’ When I told him about hosting Dayanita Singh, he would ask about the works. Now, I have no one to share these things with. I will miss his presence and the way he would always place his hand on my head—it meant so much to me.

Advocate for contemporary art

Avani Rao Gandra, Iconart Gallery

At Iconart Gallery
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

I had the privilege of meeting Mittalji during my Ph.D days. I will cherish the respect, kindness, and encouragement he extended to aspiring art students. As an art critic, artist and gallery founder, he was a guiding force — a go-to person for advice . He always had the right answers.

Jagdishji was not only an avid collector of traditional art, renowned for his world-class collection of miniature paintings, but also an advocate for contemporary art, always staying updated on the latest artistic endeavours in the city. His ability to explain the nuances of art appreciation with clarity and patience reflected his passion for knowledge and mentorship.

His scholarly contributions, combined with his vision of establishing the Jagdish and Kamal Mittal Museum of Indian Art, underscore his commitment to ensuring that his invaluable collection continues to inspire future generations. We hope the family and government work together to make the museum accessible to the public and a lasting source of inspiration. Beyond his professional achievements, his immense generosity and humanity in his personal life were evident. He adopted and nurtured three daughters, each of whom has flourished under his care and is now well-established in their careers and lives.

Laser sharp memory

Lakshmi Nambiar, Srishti Art Gallery

I used to call Mittalji thata (grandfather), and I am deeply saddened by his passing. He and his wife, Kamala, shared a special bond with my mother (Remani Nambiar, founder, Srishti Art Gallery). When my mother passed away in 2014, he took me under his wing and offered unparalleled love, affection, guidance and mentorship. It’s sad that many people in Hyderabad are unaware of his contributions to the art world. In 2015, Laxmaji (artist Laxma Goud) and I released a book on Mr Mittal, his life, and contributions to art.

He played a significant role in encouraging many artists from Hyderabad to study in Baroda during the 1970s. One of the most notable acknowledgments of his contributions came from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which hosted a major exhibition titled Sultans of the Deccan. This exhibition featured exhibits from around the world, including four items from the Jagdish and Kamal Mittal Museum. A symposium was also held in his honour, though he was unable to travel at the time

What I also admired about him was his sharp memory, which remained sharp until the last day.

A father figure

Rekha Lahoti, Kalakriti Art Gallery

Jagdish Mittal with Prshant Lahoti
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

We have known Jagdish Mittal since before the inception of Kalakriti Art Gallery in 2002. In fact, even before starting the gallery, we sought his advice. He was like a father figure to us and was part of countless exhibition inaugurations. He also served on the board of the Lahoti Foundation and the Krishnakriti Festival, where he appreciated the gallery’s efforts in supporting artists through scholarships and pursuing non-commercial initiatives.

It was Mittalji’s idea to incorporate an artist residency into our gallery’s vision, which began in 2015, making it a more holistic space. Unfortunately, the residency had to be closed after COVID.

My husband Prshant Lahoti (founder of Kalakriti Art Gallery) used to call him ‘sahab’ out of respect. He was the kind of person we deeply need in this field — someone with vast experience and knowledge who could guide us with honesty and without any commercial bias.