New Delhi, September 24, 2025 — President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious Lalit Kala Akademi Awards on 20 distinguished artists from across India during a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The awards recognize outstanding contributions in the field of visual arts, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and mixed media.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu highlighted the transformative power of art in shaping national identity and fostering unity. “Art is not just a medium of expression, but a reflection of our civilization’s soul. These artists represent the rich cultural diversity and creative spirit of India,” she said. She further emphasized that the strength of a nation lies not only in its economic and military prowess but also in its cultural depth and artistic legacy.
The awardees were selected by an expert jury constituted by the Lalit Kala Akademi, India’s national academy of fine arts under the Ministry of Culture. Each recipient received a cash prize, citation, and plaque in recognition of their artistic excellence and contribution to Indian art.
Union Minister for Culture G. Kishan Reddy and other dignitaries were present at the event, which also featured an exhibition showcasing the award-winning works. The ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to promoting and preserving India’s artistic heritage.
The Lalit Kala Akademi Awards are among the highest national honours in the visual arts domain and have been instrumental in encouraging generations of artists to pursue creative excellence.
