Hyderabad: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla inaugurated the Varna Maitri art show at the Salar Jung Museum on Wednesday, showcasing a retrospective of paintings by Rumale Chennavasayya.
The exhibition, titled ‘Varna Maitri: A Retrospective of Rumale Chennavasayya’s Paintings’, was jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Culture, the Salar Jung Museum and Rumale Art House, Bengaluru. After viewing the works, the Governor described the paintings as “exquisite.” He added that they reflected the artist’s deep affection for nature.
While addressing the gathering, Shiv Pratap Shukla called the Salar Jung Museum a symbol of Hyderabad’s cultural heritage. He emphasised its role in preserving artistic treasures. Moreover, he noted that the museum stood alongside the Charminar as a defining landmark of the city.
“As president of this prestigious institution, this is my first visit here, and I am delighted that it is dedicatedly safeguarding invaluable art and cultural heritage,” he said.
Varna Maitri art show highlights artistic legacy
In an era of globalisation, the Governor said museums played a crucial role in maintaining cultural roots. He pointed out that Hyderabad reflected a confluence of diverse cultures, languages and religions. Therefore, he said the city embodied unity in diversity as the foundation of cultural identity.
He noted that the Varna Maitri art show illustrated how art could touch hearts and bring emotions to life. At the same time, he praised Rumale Chennavasayya’s distinctive style. According to him, the artist’s works blended a deep love for nature with spirituality.
Recalling the past, the Governor spoke about the artist’s participation in the freedom struggle. He said Chennavasayya used art to inspire patriotism. Furthermore, he urged the youth to draw inspiration from the artist’s life and work.
Varna Maitri art show marks museum milestone
Shiv Pratap Shukla expressed satisfaction that the Varna Maitri art show coincided with the 75th anniversary of the Salar Jung Museum. He said such exhibitions and educational initiatives should continue.
Additionally, he noted that collaborations with national and international art institutions would enrich the field. He assured full support for efforts aimed at promoting art and culture.
Later, the Governor unveiled the Platinum Jubilee logo and poster of the Salar Jung Museum.
Member of Telangana Legislative Council Surabhi Vani Devi, Special Chief Secretary to the Governor M. Dana Kishore, Accountant General Chanda Pandit, Salar Jung Museum Director Priyanka Mary Francis and Rumale Art House Curator K.S. Srinivasa Murthy, among others, attended the event.
The Hon’ble Governor of Telangana Shri Shiv Pratap Shukla as the Chief Guest attended the “Inauguration of Exhibition Varna Mythri: A Retrospective on The Paintings of Rumale Chennavasaviah (Org. by Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad and Rumale Art House, Bengaluru) at Salar Jung… pic.twitter.com/oaTk6vhGnV
— Governor of Telangana (@tg_governor) April 15, 2026