Raja Ravi Varma’s iconic Yashoda and Krishna has been sold for INR 167.20 crores (USD 17.97 million), surpassing its higher estimate and setting a new world auction record for the artist. Varma’s ability to blend European techniques with Indian sensibilities has captivated collectors. This landmark result also represents the highest price achieved for a work of South Asian art at auction to date. One of Varma’s most accomplished works, this defining moment reaffirms his lasting significance within the canon of Indian art through his masterful synthesis of European academic realism with Indian mythological imagery. In this exclusive interview, NDTV spoke to Minal Vazirani, President and Co-founder, Saffronart on what it means for Indian art.