Bhopal’s Bharat Bhavan’s Crores-Worth Artworks Face Water Damage Risk

Bhopal's Bharat Bhavan, a prominent cultural institution, faces a significant threat to its valuable artwork collection due to persistent rain in the city over the past three days. The institution's permanent collection, which includes over 2,000 paintings, has nearly 500 pieces by renowned artists on display at the Modern Art and Rangdarshini Galleries. The remaining pieces are stored in the Bhavan's store.

Many of these artworks, valued at hundreds of crores of rupees, are not insured, raising concerns about their safety. Among the most treasured pieces is MF Husain's painting, Mother Teresa, which was acquired for just Rs 1 lakh in 1982 when the Bhavan was inaugurated. Art experts estimate this particular painting's current market value to be in the crores.

The roof of the Modern Art Gallery is leaking and the walls are damp, leading to water collection on the floor. In some instances, water is dripping near electricity lines, increasing the risk of damage. If the rain continues unabated, the situation may worsen. Among the paintings currently on display are works by Sudhir Patwardhan, Gieve Patel, Arpana Caur, Sachida Nagdev, and Ram Kumar.

In response to the deteriorating conditions, Bhavan management has removed some paintings from the gallery to protect them from the damp walls. However, the building was maintained by Capital Project Administration until 2022, after which Bharat Bhavan's management has taken over its upkeep. Prem Shankar Shukla, the chief administrative officer of Bharat Bhavan, emphasized that repairs are made periodically to prevent any damage to the valuable exhibits.

He also clarified that insuring the paintings is not a feasible option, as their value far exceeds what the Bhavan's entire budget could cover for premiums.