Top 10 Contemporary Indian Artists to Watch in 2025

The contemporary Indian art scene continues to evolve with remarkable dynamism, producing artists who challenge conventions, explore new mediums, and address pressing social issues. As we move through 2025, these ten artists represent the cutting edge of Indian artistic expression, each bringing unique perspectives that resonate both locally and globally. From established masters to emerging voices, these artists are shaping the future of Indian art.

1. Bharti Kher

Bharti Kher remains one of India's most influential contemporary artists, known for her powerful sculptures and installations that explore themes of identity, transformation, and cultural displacement. Her signature use of bindis in large-scale works creates mesmerizing patterns that speak to questions of femininity, tradition, and modernity.

Working primarily in sculpture and installation, Kher's works often feature hybrid forms that combine human and animal elements, reflecting her interest in metamorphosis and the fluidity of identity. Her international exhibitions continue to draw critical acclaim, making her a must-watch artist for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

2. Subodh Gupta

Subodh Gupta's ingenious use of everyday Indian objects—particularly stainless steel utensils—has made him one of the most recognizable names in contemporary Indian art. His monumental installations transform mundane kitchen items into spectacular sculptures that comment on globalization, migration, and cultural identity.

Gupta's work bridges the gap between traditional Indian life and contemporary art discourse, creating pieces that are both visually stunning and conceptually rich. His ability to elevate common objects into high art continues to influence a new generation of artists working with found materials.

3. Jitish Kallat

Jitish Kallat's multidisciplinary practice encompasses painting, sculpture, photography, and video art, often addressing themes of time, memory, and urban experience. His large-scale works frequently incorporate elements of Indian iconography and contemporary political discourse, creating powerful commentaries on modern Indian society.

Kallat's innovative approach to materials and his ability to weave together historical references with contemporary concerns make him a compelling figure in the Indian art landscape. His works often feature in major international exhibitions, cementing his position as a global artistic voice.

4. Shilpa Gupta

Shilpa Gupta's practice spans various media including interactive installations, video, photography, and performance art. Her work often explores themes of borders, boundaries, and the politics of identity, questioning the systems that govern our daily lives.

Gupta's installations are known for their participatory elements, inviting viewers to engage with complex social and political issues. Her ability to address serious subjects through accessible and engaging artworks makes her work particularly relevant in today's interconnected world.

5. Atul Dodiya

Atul Dodiya's distinctive visual language combines elements of Indian popular culture with references to European art history, creating paintings that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. His work often features recurring motifs and characters that populate his artistic universe.

Dodiya's paintings demonstrate a masterful understanding of both traditional and contemporary artistic vocabularies, making him a bridge between different artistic traditions. His continued exploration of painting as a medium keeps him at the forefront of contemporary Indian art.

6. Reena Saini Kallat

Reena Saini Kallat's work examines the impact of political boundaries on human lives, often using maps, electrical wiring, and natural materials to create thought-provoking installations. Her pieces frequently address issues of migration, partition, and the arbitrary nature of borders.

Kallat's ability to transform political concepts into visually compelling artworks makes her work particularly powerful in today's global context. Her installations often feature in major international exhibitions, bringing important social issues to the forefront of contemporary art discourse.

7. Dayanita Singh

Dayanita Singh has revolutionized contemporary photography in India through her innovative approach to the medium. Her work goes beyond traditional photography to include artist books, mobile museums, and architectural interventions that challenge how we think about displaying and experiencing photographs.

Singh's long-term projects documenting Indian society, from urban architecture to rural communities, provide intimate glimpses into the complexity of contemporary Indian life. Her influence on a new generation of photographers and artists working with lens-based media continues to grow.

8. Tejal Shah

Tejal Shah's practice explores themes of gender, sexuality, and identity through photography, video, and performance art. Their work often challenges conventional notions of masculinity and femininity, addressing LGBTQ+ issues within the Indian context.

Shah's fearless approach to difficult subjects and their ability to create visually compelling work from personal experiences make them an important voice in contemporary Indian art. Their work continues to gain international recognition and influence.

9. Praneet Soi

Praneet Soi's paintings and installations draw from his multicultural background, incorporating influences from Indian miniature painting, European art history, and contemporary popular culture. His work often features fragmented narratives and dreamlike imagery that speak to the complexities of modern identity.

Soi's ability to synthesize diverse artistic traditions into a cohesive contemporary vision makes him a compelling figure in the current art scene. His work continues to evolve, incorporating new influences and addressing contemporary concerns.

10. Mithu Sen

Mithu Sen's provocative and often humorous work spans drawing, sculpture, performance, and installation art. Her pieces frequently address issues of gender, power, and social norms, using wit and irreverence to challenge conventional thinking.

Sen's ability to tackle serious subjects through playful and engaging artworks makes her work particularly effective in reaching diverse audiences. Her continued experimentation with different media and her willingness to push boundaries keep her at the forefront of contemporary practice.

The Future of Contemporary Indian Art

These ten artists represent the diverse and dynamic nature of contemporary Indian art in 2025. Each brings unique perspectives and approaches to their practice, contributing to a rich tapestry of artistic expression that continues to evolve and influence the global art scene.

What unites these artists is their ability to address contemporary concerns while drawing from India's rich cultural heritage. They navigate between tradition and innovation, creating works that speak to both local and international audiences. Their continued success and influence suggest that Indian contemporary art will remain a vital force in the global art world.

As collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts look toward the future, these artists offer compelling visions of what contemporary Indian art can be. Their work not only reflects the complexity of modern India but also contributes to broader conversations about identity, globalization, and the role of art in society.

Whether through established masters like Bharti Kher and Subodh Gupta or emerging voices like Tejal Shah and Mithu Sen, these artists continue to push boundaries and explore new territories in their practice. Their work serves as both a mirror to contemporary Indian society and a window into possible futures, making them essential figures to watch in the coming years.