Looking to explore the most influential Indian artists of the 21st century? Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a creative professional, understanding the pioneers shaping the art world today can inspire and guide your work.
As you navigate your creative path, it’s easy to feel challenged or unsure. But you’re not alone—many share these struggles.
That’s where we come in. With our expertise, we’ll introduce you to the leaders in art, music, dance, and architecture who have reshaped Indian culture and influenced global trends.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Painters and sculptors
- Musicians and performing artists
- Writers and architects
Read on to discover how these influential figures can help elevate your work and inspire new ideas. Ready to get started?
By following their examples, you’ll uncover new ways to transform your creative practice and push your limits.
- The Most Famous Indian Artists in the 21st Century
- Indian Painters (21st Century)
- Indian Sculptors/Installation (21st Century)
- Indian Dancers (21st Century)
- Indian Photographer (21st Century)
- Indian Writer (21st Century)
- Indian Musicians (21st Century)
- Indian Cast (21st Century)
- Indian Architect (21st Century)
- Indian Artists in the 21st Century: A Recap
- FAQ
The Most Famous Indian Artists in the 21st Century
Padma Subrahmanyam
Padma Subrahmanyam, with over 60 years of experience, is known for her unique style that blends tradition with innovation. A respected teacher, Padma plays an important role in promoting and preserving Bharatanatyam both in India and internationally.
Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh is a renowned Indian playback singer, famous for his soulful voice and versatility. He has earned numerous awards and is one of the most beloved vocalists in Bollywood.
Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan is a legendary Indian actor, celebrated for his powerful performances in over five decades of cinema. Known as the “Shahenshah of Bollywood,” his versatile roles and captivating screen presence have made him a global icon.
Indian Painters (21st Century)
S. H. Raza
S. H. Raza was one of the Famous Indian Painters whose vivid colors and abstract forms express themes from Indian spirituality and nature. Born in Madhya Pradesh in 1922, he became an influential figure in modern Indian art, blending Western and Indian influences. His iconic “Bindu” motif—a simple dot—symbolizes life’s essence and unity, reflecting his fascination with Indian philosophy.
Raza’s artistry stands out in his vibrant color choices and geometric patterns, which evoke deep emotion and contemplation. His works explore themes of existence, nature, and spiritual reflection, making them widely appealing and impactful. Raza’s legacy continues to inspire both artists and art lovers globally through his unique vision and cultural symbolism.
Indian Sculptors/Installation (21st Century)
Sobodh Gupta
Subodh Gupta is a leading Indian artist recognized for turning everyday objects into impactful works of art. Using items like steel utensils and tiffin boxes, he creates large-scale installations that highlight themes of tradition, modernity, and identity, presenting aspects of Indian life in a universally relatable way.
Gupta’s talent lies in transforming simple materials to convey Indian Culture. His sculptures encourage viewers to reflect on shared experiences and cultural memories, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary art worldwide.
See Also Sports in India
Indian Dancers (21st Century)
Padma Subrahmanyam
Padma Subrahmanyam is a celebrated Indian classical dancer and choreographer known for her expertise in Bharatanatyam and her revival of Bharata’s Natya Shastra. Her unique Indian Dance Style combines traditional techniques with elements from ancient Indian dance, creating a distinctive approach that respects and innovates within classical forms.
In addition to her performances, Subrahmanyam is a respected researcher who has greatly contributed to the study of Indian dance history. Through her teaching and choreography, she inspires dancers and scholars worldwide, making a significant impact on Indian classical dance.
Alarmel Valli
Alarmel Valli is a distinguished Indian classical dancer known for her exceptional skill in Bharatanatyam. Her performances are defined by grace, precision, and emotional depth, blending traditional techniques with fresh interpretations. Valli’s artistry brings a vibrant energy to the classical dance form, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
As a choreographer and teacher, Valli is committed to preserving the essence of Bharatanatyam while incorporating modern elements. Her contributions to dance make her an influential figure in the classical dance world, inspiring many dancers and fostering the growth of the art form globally.
Indian Photographer (21st Century)
Dabboo Ratnani
Dabboo Ratnani is a prominent Indian celebrity photographer, recognized for his bold portraiture and fashion photography. He has worked with top Bollywood stars, creating iconic images that highlight their personality and style. His work is known for creative compositions, striking lighting, and attention to detail.
Ratnani excels at visual storytelling, using his photography to evoke powerful emotions. His annual calendar, featuring leading celebrities, is highly anticipated, reinforcing his influence in the world of fashion and celebrity photography.
Indian Writer (21st Century)
Ashwin Sanghi
Ashwin Sanghi is a popular Indian author known for his thrilling novels that blend history, mythology, and contemporary storytelling. His debut book, The Rozabal Line, set the tone for his career, combining mystery and ancient lore. Sanghi’s writing is marked by extensive research, strong characters, and fast-paced plots that engage readers from start to finish.
Sanghi excels at mixing historical events with fiction, creating stories that are both thought-provoking and entertaining. His works, such as Chanakya’s Chant and The Krishna Key, are celebrated for their fresh take on Indian history and mythology, establishing him as one of India’s leading contemporary authors.
See Also Indian Folk Art
Indian Musicians (21st Century)
Aasma
Aasma was an Indian pop group formed in 2003, consisting of the winners from the second season of Coke Popstars. The band featured six members: Neeti Mohan, Jimmy Felix, Sangeet Haldipur, Aamir Ali, Peyush Dixit, and Vasudha Sharma. They gained popularity with their music and released their second and final album Remix in 2004, which was created for the TV series of the same name.
Although the group disbanded after 2004, with no official statement about their split, the members pursued successful solo careers. Despite their short time together, Aasma made a mark in the Music in India scene with their catchy songs and memorable performances.
Shreya Ghoshal
Shreya Ghoshal is one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, known for her wide vocal range and ability to sing in multiple languages. With a career spanning over two decades, she has sung numerous hit songs in Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and many other languages. Her melodious voice and powerful performances have made her a standout artist in the Indian music industry.
Ghoshal’s skill lies in her ability to convey deep emotions through her singing. Whether it’s a romantic ballad or a classical piece, she brings a unique touch to every song, connecting with listeners on a personal level. Her versatility and mastery of various music genres have established her as one of the finest voices in Indian music.
Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh is a highly respected Indian playback singer, known for his soulful and versatile voice. He has become a leading figure in the Bollywood music scene, with his ability to sing across a range of genres, from romantic tracks to classical and Sufi music. His emotive delivery has earned him a massive fan base and numerous accolades.
Arijit’s skill lies in his ability to evoke deep emotions with every song. His unique voice and expressive style have made him one of the most sought-after singers in the industry. Songs like “Tum Hi Ho” and “Channa Mereya” showcase his remarkable vocal range and his talent for connecting with listeners.
See Also Indian Fashion
Indian Cast (21st Century)
Amitabh Bachchan
Amitabh Bachchan is one of India’s most influential actors, known for his powerful screen presence and versatility. Over a career that has lasted more than five decades, he has taken on a wide variety of roles in Hindi cinema, ranging from intense dramas to light comedies. His distinct voice and ability to convey deep emotions have made him an unforgettable figure in Indian film.
Bachchan’s strength lies in his remarkable ability to fully bring characters to life, regardless of the role. Whether playing a romantic lead or a more complex figure, he connects with his audience on a profound level. Films like Sholay, Deewar, and Paa highlight his exceptional acting talent, securing his position as one of the greatest actors in the world of cinema.
Shahrukh Khan
Shah Rukh Khan is one of Bollywood’s most beloved and successful actors, known for his charisma and wide-ranging talent. With a career spanning over 30 years, he has excelled in a variety of roles, from romantic leads to intense dramatic performances. His ability to connect with audiences through his powerful on-screen presence has earned him immense popularity both in India and globally.
Khan’s skill lies in his emotional range and his natural ability to make each character feel real and relatable. Whether in iconic romantic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge or more intense roles in Chak De! India and My Name Is Khan, he leaves a lasting impression. His influence extends beyond cinema, making him a global cultural figure with a legacy that resonates worldwide.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is a renowned Indian actress, celebrated for her beauty and exceptional acting talent. She rose to fame after winning the Miss World title in 1994 and later became one of the most recognized faces in Bollywood with her performances in films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas. Her ability to portray a wide range of characters has made her a prominent figure in Indian cinema.
Apart from her acting prowess, Aishwarya is known for her elegance and grace. Her roles in movies such as Jodhaa Akbar and Guru highlight her versatility, while her global influence extends beyond films through her work in fashion and charity. She continues to inspire audiences around the world with her remarkable contributions to both cinema and social causes.
Indian Architect (21st Century)
BV Doshi
Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi was a prominent Indian architect who significantly impacted the development of modern architecture in India. He worked with great figures like Le Corbusier and Louis Kahn, helping shape a unique architectural style that blended modernist principles with Indian traditions. His designs are known for their focus on sustainability, functionality, and creating spaces that foster community interaction.
Famous Buildings in India include FLAME University, IIM Bangalore, NIFT Delhi, and the Aranya Low-Cost Housing in Indore, which won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. In 2018, Doshi became the first Indian architect to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize. His remarkable contributions to the field were also recognized through the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, and the Royal Gold Medal from the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2022.
Indian Artists in the 21st Century: A Recap
Indian artists in the 21st century have made a lasting impact on the global art scene through their innovative and thought-provoking works. With mediums ranging from traditional practices to contemporary digital and mixed media art, they explore significant topics such as social issues, cultural identity, political change, and environmental challenges.
These artists continuously challenge societal norms, offering fresh perspectives on modern life and its complexities. Their works not only reflect the rich cultural history of India but also engage with the world’s evolving trends, shaping the future of art and inspiring new generations of creators.
