KILIMANOOR: The copy of Raja Ravi Varma’s pioneering artwork Indulekha, based on the novel from O. Chandu Menon will now have its place in the art gallery of Kilimanoor Royal Palace. Dr. Divya S. Iyer inaugurated the event on the occasion of Raja Ravi Varma’s 176th birthday.

The original of this awe-inspiring painting is now safely kept in Lakshmi Sadanam of Irnijalakuda. The house belongs to retired Judge AC Kunjunni Raja's grandchildren Sasikala and Madhusudhanan. Ret. Judge A.C. Kunjunni Raja and Ravi Varma's sister Mangalabhai Thamburati's grandson Dr. Bhaskara Varma were relatives. This picture was given as a gift by Bhaskaravarma to Kunjunniraja when the latter arrived at the palace.

Ravi Varma painted Indulekha on Chanthumenon's instructions. Ravi Varma's painting 'Mohini', which was kept at the Pundole Art Gallery in Mumbai, was auctioned for Rs 17 crore the other day.