PM gifts Odisha artist’s work to French Prez

Paris/Bhubaneswar: Odia artist Bhaskar Mahapatra’s painting titled ‘Tree of Life’ was presented as a gift to French President Francois Hollande [franswa olanda] by prime minister Narendra Modi during his trip to that country.

As per a statement issued by the PMO, the tree, as a divine gift central to human life, is a recurring element in Indian artistic practice.

The Tree of Life, with multiple roots and branches like a banyan tree, is a motif for a tree’s benevolence, fruit, seeds, shelter, healing, procreation and regeneration faculties that sustain life and clean environment.

Mahapatra has been practicing the art form for the last 30 years along with his family and works from his home in Raghurajpur village.

He has also been honoured by Lalit Kala Akademi for his illustrious work.