Gaganendranath Tagore (1867–1938) was a prominent Indian painter, illustrator, and a key figure in the Bengal School of Art. As the nephew of the illustrious poet and freedom fighter Rabindranath Tagore, and the brother of Abanindranath Tagore and Sunayani Devi, Gaganendranath grew up in an environment rich with artistic and intellectual activity. This unique familial backdrop profoundly influenced his artistic journey, which combined traditional Indian styles with modern influences, making him an important figure in early 20th-century Indian art.

Born into the renowned Tagore family, Gaganendranath was immersed in a vibrant cultural milieu from a young age. His family’s legacy of artistic expression and social reform provided him with a fertile ground for his creative inclinations. He developed a strong interest in traditional Indian art forms, which he later refined at the Calcutta School of Art. His education there allowed him to explore various artistic techniques and styles, laying the foundation for his future work.

In the early 20th century, Gaganendranath traveled to Europe, where he encountered Western art movements such as Impressionism and Symbolism. This exposure was transformative, as it introduced him to new ways of seeing and representing the world. The influence of these movements helped him blend Indian styles with global trends, creating a unique artistic voice that set him apart from his contemporaries. His ability to synthesize these diverse influences would become a hallmark of his work, allowing him to navigate the complexities of cultural identity during a time of significant change in India.