Krishen Khanna: The Last Progressive

The way Krishen Khanna sees the world is the way he paints it. He draws inspiration from his surroundings and lived experiences, turning everyday moments into enduring works of art, in turn elevating the ordinary.

His paintings are proof of a life passionately observed and lovingly recorded. Among his most iconic works, The Bandwallas stand out as a tribute to India’s marching band musicians, painted not as caricature, but with respect and empathy. Other series, including Watermelon and Card Players, are rooted in his childhood memories of summer days and street games in Lahore, while in his Biblical series, Khanna merges the spiritual with social themes in a powerful visual statement.

On July 5, 2025, Khanna celebrated his 100th birthday, making him one of the oldest living artists in India. Beyond Time: Selected Works 1940–2025 commemorates this milestone through a carefully curated glimpse into his work, with more than 1,453 works of art featured and detailed. Plus, personal photographs and other photos round up a volume that will be treasured by all lovers of Indian Modern art.

Khanna’s work tells stories of society, memory, and time. Beyond Time is not just a celebration of an artist’s centenary, but a reminder of the power of observation and omnipresent humanity.

Published by The Arts Trust, in association with AstaGuru. Price ₹19,999, available on Amazon and Flipkart.