LAHORE: The Lahore Arts Council’s Alhamra Art Museum celebrates a century-old visual artwork by Ustad Allah Bakhsh.

It has been a century since the creation of the masterpiece based on the famous and beloved folk tale of Sohni Mahiwal by the world-renowned artist, Ustad Allah Bakhsh. Painted in 1923, this artwork stands as a testament to the enduring talent and creativity of the artist.

Since 1996, this remarkable piece has been displayed at the Alhamra Art Museum at Gaddafi Stadium, and restored in 2016 by CKU Danish Centre of Art & Culture. This painting is drawing the attention of visitors from all walks of life. Ustad Allah Bakhsh’s painting takes viewers on a captivating journey, allowing their imaginations to soar to new heights.

The artwork by Allah Bakhsh continues to be the crown jewel of the Alhamra Art Museum. These works leave a profound and lasting impression on the minds of those who behold them. Young artists eagerly study and draw inspiration from Allah Bakhsh’s masterpieces.

In addition to Sohni Mahiwal, Ustad Allah Bakhsh has created a plethora of masterpieces, including Heer Ranjha, Sohni Dharti, Tilism-i-Hoshruba, and numerous scenes depicting festivals and rural life in Punjab. His artwork not only provides visual enjoyment for the audience but also celebrates the cultural heritage, poetic literature, and rural life of Punjab.

Ustad Allah Bakhsh’s artistic prowess is exemplified by the countless artworks he created throughout his career, each one garnering popularity and remaining a treasured attraction for museum visitors to this day. His contributions to the world of art have become timeless, setting the bar for artistic excellence and inspiring generations to come.

Published in Dawn, July 13th, 2023