Renowned Mumbai-based artist honoured at 64th National Exhibition of Art in New Delhi
New Delhi/Mumbai, 3rd October 2025: Maharashtra’s celebrated painter Nilesh Ravindra Vede has been conferred with the prestigious National Award by Lalit Kala Akademi, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his acclaimed work “I, Me and Myself.” The award was presented by Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at the 64th National Exhibition of Art in New Delhi.
The august ceremony was attended by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, along with Shri Vivek Aggarwal (Secretary, Ministry of Culture), Smt. Amita Prasad Sarabhai (Additional Secretary, Ministry of Culture), and Dr. Nandalal Thakur (Vice Chairperson, Lalit Kala Akademi).
Out of 5,922 artworks submitted from across the country, Vede’s painting stood out for its philosophical depth, symbolism, and nuanced representation of human emotions. His practice seamlessly integrates contemplative thought with metaphorical and figurative visual language.
President Murmu, in her address, highlighted that “art is a powerful medium to enrich cultural heritage and make society more sensitive.” She also noted Lalit Kala Akademi’s role in promoting the sale of artworks this year as a means to strengthen India’s creative economy.
Union Minister Shekhawat added: “Art and creativity reflect the identity of a nation and strengthen the national spirit when they become a part of homes, schools, and public spaces.”
Reacting to the honour, Nilesh Vede said: “I feel this award has been given not to a single painting but to my entire artistic journey. I dedicate it to every individual who has trusted and supported my art. To uphold the dignity of this recognition, I will continue my artistic pursuit with dedication, and as a responsible citizen, I remain committed to enriching Indian art and culture.”
About Nilesh Ravindra Vede
Mumbai-based visual artist Nilesh Ravindra Vede draws deeply from the contrasts of city life—chaos and calm, silence and rhythm—which shape his exploration of human emotions. Rooted in figuration but often dissolving into surrealism, his works blend symbolism, metaphor, layered textures, and poetry to evoke the fragility of existence.
Vede has held eight solo exhibitions and participated in over 30 group shows across India and abroad, including at Mumbai’s Jehangir Art Gallery. His works have been exhibited internationally and featured in prestigious auctions such as MANIFEST (2024), VISIONARIES (2024), and SHOWKEEN (2025) by AstaGuru Auction House.
He has received both Junior and Senior Fellowships in Visual Art from the Ministry of Culture and earlier recognitions including scholarships and a state-level award from the Prafulla Dahanukar Foundation. His art is part of private and institutional collections worldwide, including those of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Harsh Goenka, Boney Kapoor, and the World Trade Center Pune.
The 2025 National Award further cements his place among India’s most significant contemporary artists, with a vision that continues to bridge philosophy, mindfulness, and creativity.
