Rich tributes were today paid to late Padma Shri awardee Kanhai Chitrakar by art lovers across various fields including senior BJP leader L K Advani who described the painter as a "committed artist".
Chitrakar, who pioneered in reviving the artistic form known as Kanhai gold painting using pure gold and precious stones, passed away on August 14 after a prolonged illness.
Speaking to reporters at a meeting here to mourn his death, Advani said Chitrakar's paintings depicting Krishna in various forms and poses was such that it impressed everyone.
"He was a committed artist. His depiction of Krishna Bhakti through his art of golden paintings impressed everyone," he said.
"I have got the highest regard for his family. His sons (Krishn and Govind) would carry the tradition to the highest position," he added.
Chitrakar, who was awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian art, revived the ancient gold art form
of Benaras and used pure gold ink, gold foils and Swarovski stones to depict Lord Krishna.