Bhubaneswar: Odisha will soon host the country’s fourth National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) branch, following Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with the state government providing land and infrastructure support, announced Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the closing ceremony of UTKALIKA – A Show of Modern Art at Lalit Kala Akademi.
Shri Majhi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modern art, stating, “After assuming office, I wrote to the Ministry of Culture and held discussions regarding an NGMA branch in Bhubaneswar. We have received a positive response. This initiative will enrich Odisha’s artistic legacy, empower local artists, and boost international tourism.”
The event was attended by Sanjeev Kishor Gautam, Director General of NGMA, and Ramakrishna Vedala, Regional Secretary of Lalit Kala Akademi, along with leading artists and cultural figures.
UTKALIKA, jointly organized by NGMA and Lalit Kala Akademi, showcased a prestigious collection of modern and contemporary Indian art, drawing art enthusiasts, scholars, and students.
On this occasion, Saffron Leader, Golak Mohapatra and Agasti Behera, Member of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Chhendipada, were also present among other dignitaries .
Dr. Gautam emphasized that UTKALIKA is a platform to foster creative dialogue and promote India’s rich artistic heritage. The exhibition, inaugurated on January 6, 2025, as part of the 18th Bharatiya Pravasi Divas, featured masterpieces from NGMA’s Mumbai collection, including works by S. H. Raza, M. F. Husain, F. N. Souza, Tyeb Mehta, and V. S. Gaitonde.
With strong state support, the upcoming NGMA branch is expected to position Bhubaneswar as a prominent center for modern and contemporary art, further strengthening Odisha’s cultural landscape.