A masterpiece by legendary Indian modernist M.F. Husain has set a new auction record for modern Indian art. His 1954 painting Untitled (Gram Yatra) fetched an astounding $13.8 million (₹118.7 crore) at Christie’s South Asian Modern and Contemporary Art auction on March 19, 2025.
The vibrant artwork, painted during the early phase of Husain’s career, depicts vignettes of rural Indian life. In Untitled (Gram Yatra), Husain masterfully blends Indian folk traditions with his modernist sensibilities, using dynamic brushwork, bold lines, and earthy hues to capture the rhythm and essence of village life. The painting exemplifies his signature style—deeply rooted in Indian culture while embracing the influence of Western modernism.
This historic sale shattered the previous record held by Amrita Sher-Gil’s The Story Teller, reaffirming Husain’s position as one of the most influential figures in Indian art history.
Maqbool Fida Husain (1915–2011), often referred to as the ‘Picasso of India,’ was a pioneer of modern Indian art and a founding member of the Progressive Artists’ Group. His works, spanning themes of mythology, history, and contemporary society, continue to command global recognition. Despite controversies surrounding his bold depictions of Hindu deities, Husain remained an artist of unparalleled influence, leaving behind an extraordinary artistic legacy.
Experts believe this record-breaking sale highlights the increasing global demand for Indian modern art and reinforces Husain’s enduring impact on the international art market.
