Rs 68 lakh: New high for Indian art

in terms of price per square inch.

As congratulatory calls poured in, the 82-year-old was busy painting in his Paris studio in Gorbio. Yet another bindu, titled Germination, sat on the easel.

‘‘Painting the Bindu has been a life-long research in silence. For, in the words of Sant Tukaram: ‘In the beginning the seed is alone—all great searches begin alone’. But I’m human. Naturally, I’m happy if my paintings sell well. Creatively, I’d say this is the best phase of my life,’’ said Raza over the phone.

Raza was in Mumbai recently for his solo exhibition held at Art Musings, in Colaba, said gallery owner Shanti Chopra: ‘‘Irrespective of the recent sales, I have always held Raza as one of India’s finest contemporary artists. I’m glad he’s getting due recognition.’’ Raza’s was not an easy journey. He moved to Paris in 1950s, shortly after graduating at the J J School of Art.

Those days, the young painter used to spend all his money on quality paint and brushes, even if that meant darning his old socks and eating at cheap cafes. ‘‘Today are prepared to pay a substantial price for my paintings,” he said. “Indian contemporary art has come of age.”