9 Paintings by S.L Haldankar that show him to be a “Master of Watercolour”

S.L Haldankar (25 November 1882– 30 May 1968) was one of the most celebrated watercolour painters of pre-Independent India.

Every year on Diwali, a popular painting by S.L Haldankar, “Glow of Hope” does the rounds on social media. The watercolour painting is one of Haldankar’s most famous and recognizable works and features his young daughter. His daughter, wearing a saree poses with a lamp, gracefully protecting its flame. Her face, illuminated by the lamp’s glow and the light radiating through her fingers makes the portrait one of the finest examples of Haldankar’s artistic genius. The painting created in the 1920s, has captivated art lovers for years and is undoubtedly one of his most enduring works.

glow of hope watercolour painting by SL Haldankar shows a girl holding a lamp, her face illuminated by its glow
Glow of Hope, S.L Haldankar in the collection of Sri Jayachamarajendra Art Gallery, Mysore

However, there are other paintings by S.L Haldankar (at museums in India) that are worth celebrating. In the early 1900s, Haldankar studied at the J.J School of Art under the tutelage of artists like M.V Dhurandhar , A.X Trindade & Cecil Burns, emerging as one of the most inventive portrait and landscape painters of the time.

 watercolour painting by SL Haldankar shows a woman lighting a lamp, her face illuminated by its glow

Both Watercolour and Oil as mediums have their limitations. But Haldankar skilfully employed the mediums and with his keen observation created works that evoked depth and texture. He became known for his portraits, receiving commissions from industrialists, politicians and royalty.

Here are 7 more paintings by S.L Haldankar that capture his incredible skill:

Explore More In

Also read:

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here