Farhan Israeli/Jaipur

When it comes to the miniature paintings of Rajasthan, the name Syed Shakir Ali stands out unmistakably. He is not only a master of this intricate art form but also a devoted custodian of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage.

Shakir Ali’s artistic journey began in his early childhood. As a young boy, he would sketch with coal on walls and draw portraits of people using ballpoint pens while waiting at barber shops—perhaps unaware then that this humble hobby would one day earn him some of the nation’s highest artistic accolades.

In school, he would craft rangoli with chalk and vibrant colors, excelling in every art competition he entered. Art, it seems, ran in his blood. His grandfather, Syed Hamid Ali, was a celebrated painter and teacher in the Awadh school tradition, while his father dealt in rare paintings and historical artifacts. This artistic lineage deeply shaped Shakir’s respect for, and dedication to, the world of art.

Shakir Ali receiving Padma Shri from President Pranab Mukherjee

Born in 1956 in Jalesar, a village in Uttar Pradesh, his family later moved to Jaipur, where his artistic talents found both expression. It was here that he gave new direction—and international visibility—to the traditional Rajasthani miniature art form. His lifelong contribution was formally recognized when he was honoured with the Padma Shri.

Shakir’s serious engagement with miniature painting began after a chance encounter with Padma Shri Ramgopal Vijayvargiya, a family friend and artist. Although Shakir wasn’t deeply drawn to Vijayvargiya’s Bengal-style painting, it was in his studio that he discovered books on Kishangarh-style miniatures. Fascinated, he began copying the artworks with a pencil.

Impressed by his natural talent, Ramgopal guided him to Vedpal Sharma, famously known as Bannu Ji, a legendary master from the Jaipur royal court tradition. Under Bannu Ji’s rigorous mentorship, Shakir Ali trained for nearly three years, immersing himself fully in the delicate discipline of miniature painting.

Shakir Ali being felicitated by Rajasthan Chief Minister Gehlot

Although his parents had hoped he would become a doctor, and he excelled in biology with top grades, his heart was elsewhere. His biology charts were so artistic that they often won awards. Ultimately, he chose art as his true calling, completed a Bachelor of Arts, and committed himself entirely to miniature painting.

For Shakir Ali, miniature art is not merely about small size—it’s about painstaking detail. He explains that on sheets as small as 12 to 16 inches, he paints expressions, eyelids, skin textures, birds, trees, flowers, and landscapes so finely that a magnifying glass is often needed to appreciate the full depth. “Art can’t be taught—it must be observed,” he says. “Some learn in years, others in days.” According to him, mastery in this art comes only through patience, dedication, and years of relentless practice.

In 1992, he represented India at the 10th SAARC Folk Festival in Islamabad, where he won first prize. The following year, he received the National Award from the Government of India. These recognitions opened the door to global platforms. He has since represented India in nearly 15 countries, including Iran, Turkey, Algeria, the U.S., the U.K., and seven times in Dubai, often earning top honors.

Shakir Ali with his family

His work has graced the walls of the Prime Minister’s residence, and his paintings have been gifted to visiting dignitaries and at official events abroad.

Over the years, he has also conducted live painting demonstrations across the globe, often painting over the course of a week in 2-hour sessions, while being observed and judged. Even in Dubai, where art sales are rare, his work captivated Arab audiences and drew admiration.

Now at 71, Shakir Ali remains full of energy and purpose. He is working on a coffee table book featuring his artwork, with insights into his brushwork, color palettes, and techniques, accompanied by video tutorials. His hope is that young people—especially children—will learn from it and help revive this ancient art form.

His is not just the story of a gifted painter, but that of a visionary. Shakir Ali has not only preserved the delicate tradition of Rajasthani miniature painting but also reimagined it for the global stage—with simplicity, humility, and relentless devotion. His Padma Shri in 2013 and the Credent Ratna Award in 2021 are proof that unwavering passion can transcend boundaries.

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Syed Shakir Ali is not just a master of miniature—he is its magician, a man who sparked a quiet revolution in the world of traditional Indian painting.