Tribal Art Finally Getting Its Due: Anjolie Ela Menon At NDTV Masterstroke Art Awards

Veteran artist Anjolie Ela Menon says the democratisation of art in India is already gaining strong momentum, thanks to growing support from galleries, institutions, private patrons, and even the government. Speaking at the NDTV Art Awards, Menon noted that both central and state governments have long been involved in promoting art through awards and initiatives, and that the current moment represents a “boom time for art” in the country. With multiple stakeholders now actively encouraging creativity, she believes art is steadily moving beyond elite circles and becoming more accessible to the wider public. She also welcomed the increased recognition for tribal and indigenous art, calling it a long-overdue step toward inclusive representation. Menon praised platforms like the NDTV Art Awards for further opening up the space and bringing diverse artistic voices into the mainstream conversation.