Internationally renowned MP artist SH Raza passes away, last rites in Mandla

Correspondent

NewsBits.in

BHOPAL: Internationally renowned artist SH Raza, who hailed from Madhya Pradesh, passed away in Delhi on Saturday.

Raza was 94. He belonged to Mandla in Madhya Pradesh. Also, he lived in Damoh where he attended school.

Known for painting 'Bindu', Raza had graduated from JJ School of Arts, Mumbai. He was among founders of the Progressive Artists' Group in Bombay.

Raza stayed in France. He lived there for nearly 60 years. He was given the highest French civilian honour--Legion of Honour. His paintings were sold for tens of crores.

But what made 'bindu' a life long passion for the artist? Raza has told the story to journalists in the past. He wanted an Indian concept and 'bindu' had always attracted his attention. It goes back to his childhood day in MP.

Once his schoolteacher had drawan a circle on the board while leaving the class. He wanted Raza to look at it, in order to improve his concentration. Little did he know, that this would add a new dimension to world art.

In 2010, he returned to India and settled in Delhi. He was hospitalised and died after prolonged illness. As per his wishes, the last rites would be performed in Mandla in Madhya Pradesh.