Art Magnum will present ‘Silappadikaram – One of Five Tamil Epics: KK Hebbar Interprets the Classic’, a solo exhibition by celebrated modernist KK Hebbar, curated by Jyotirmoy Bhattacharya, in collaboration with the KK Hebbar Art Foundation, from September 21 to October 31.
The exhibition will feature a series of evocative paintings that reimagine the Tamil epic Silappadikaram, alongside the launch of the book Illango Adigal’s Silappadikaram: The Poetic Narration in Lines by KK Hebbar. Hebbar’s works explore themes of love, betrayal, justice, and transcendence, using layered textures, symbolic forms, and a palette that moves between restraint and intensity to capture the emotional depth of the epic.
Hebbar’s children—Rekha Hebbar Rao, Rajani Hebbar Prasanna, and Ranna Hebbar—who continue to nurture his artistic legacy through the KK Hebbar Art Foundation, will be present at the opening. The evening will also feature The Song of the Anklet, verses from Silappadikaram, performed by Padma Shri awardee Prathibha Prahlad and Sridhar Vasudevan.
“Hebbar’s work goes beyond narrative illustration; it creates an experiential engagement with the epic. The balance of silence and intensity in his canvases reflects the text’s moral undertones and enduring relevance,” said curator Jyotirmoy Bhattacharya.
When: September 21–October 31; 11 AM to 7 PM
Where: Art Magnum, New Delhi
