Ramananda Bandopadhyay, born in 1936 in Birbhum, West Bengal, is a distinguished figure of the Bengal School of Art. He pursued his formal education in Fine Arts at Kala Bhavan, Santiniketan, and graduated in 1957 under the mentorship of the legendary artist Nandalal Bose The philosophy and artistic environment of Santiniketan played a crucial role in shaping his creative vision and deepening his connection with Indian aesthetics and traditions. Bandopadhyay's art draws heavily from Indian mythology, literature, and classical values, often portraying Hindu deities, epic characters, and rustic village life.
His strong cultural roots and spiritual outlook deeply shaped the themes and subjects of his art. He believed that tradition offers a moral and spiritual backbone to society, a conviction that resonates throughout his paintings, which are rich in narrative depth and timeless in theme. His style is instantly recognizable for its clean lines, graceful figures, and a distinct earthy palette dominated by reds, browns, and greens—a choice inspired by his mother’s fondness for paan (betel leaves). The muted tones evoke a sense of nostalgia and serenity, aligning beautifully with his focus on the simple, graceful lifestyles of rural Bengal. While his work maintains a strong traditional base, it also exudes a quiet modernism, evident in the stylization and composition of his subjects.
Ramananda Bandopadhyay’s artworks honour the purity, grace, and spiritual depth of everyday life, reflecting a time when simplicity prevailed and values were deeply ingrained in society. His contribution to Indian art lies not only in preserving the ethos of the Bengal School but also in giving it a personal and poetic dimension. Through decades of dedicated practice, he has created a visual language that continues to resonate with art lovers, collectors, and scholars alike.