The Art of Collecting: Conversations at The Q at The Quorum Hyderabad

The Jagdish and Kamla Mittal Museum of Indian Art

Naveen Beesa, the CEO of the Jagdish and Kamla Mittal Museum of Indian Art, talked about the extraordinary story of his grandparents’ collection. Taken in by Hyderabad’s charm and hospitality, Jagdish and Kamla Mittal, both artists, settled in the city in 1951. Over the decades, they painstakingly built an incredible collection of approximately 2,500 objects—comprising folk bronzes, metalware and textiles to miniature paintings and drawings.

Naveen highlighted a 17th-century Golconda salver, an intricately engraved copper masterpiece adorned with floral and animal motifs, symbolizing the high level of craftsmanship of the time. A Bidri hookah vase from 1634, a lucky find with an inscription that provided its historical context was another striking piece from his collection projected on the LED screen at The Quorum.

His anecdotes also included the acquisition of a Golconda painting of a parrot and ram, a piece initially deemed disproportionate by its original owner. The parrot, depicted as nearly three times the size of the ram, intrigued scholars for its creative audacity. The painting is now an iconic piece in the Mittal collection and was exchanged for some recently acquired drawings. This only reaffirms Jagdish Mittal’s discerning eye and negotiating prowess.

Rama Lakshmi Pratipati's Eclectic Collection

Rama Lakshmi Pratipati, an architect, displayed her collection which reflects her passion for blending antiques with modern aesthetics. She started collecting Western artifacts,but soon moved on to Indian objects, inspired by interactions with Jagdish Mittal. Her home in Hyderabad is a mini museum in itself and a treasure trove, showcasing beautiful artifacts in every nook and corner of the house. From Deccan vahanas and Chettinad doors to Tamil Nadu veerakalas and Kerala deepams, she has some of the most exquisite pieces scattered around her house.

A 250-year-old Chettinad door, skillfully repurposed as the main door of her house is a standout piece for sure. Her unique approach to collecting reflects in her ability to blend antiques into the fabric of her home.

Her favorite items include a set of Deep Lakshmis from Tamil Nadu, some over 200 years old, and a collection of Islamic artifacts that, when arranged together, create a stunning display. Demonstrating her keen eye for art that transcends time and style, Rama Lakshmi’s eclectic taste extends to both contemporary and ancient objects.

Inspiring Future Collectors

After showcasing their extraordinary collection, Naveen and Lakshmi shared valuable advice for aspiring, new and seasoned art enthusiasts by sharing the joys and challenges of collecting art.

Naveen emphasised the need to have a keen eye and a deep appreciation for the stories behind each piece. Rama Lakshmi underscored the importance of integrating different aesthetics and the pleasure of living surrounded by beautiful objects.

Their stories also shed light on how collecting arts led to cultural enrichment and personal growth. The legacy of Jagdish and Kamla Mittal serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of celebrating and preserving art within its cultural context.

Lakshmi Nambiar paid befitting tributes to the collectors saying their efforts have made sure that invaluable artworks remain in India, and accessible to future generations.