Jai Zharotia (1945–2021) was a visionary Indian artist whose multifaceted practice encompassed painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, and poetry. Born in New Delhi, he studied Fine Arts at the Delhi College of Art (1967–71) and later served as a professor and head of its painting department. Zharotia’s work is renowned for its surreal, dreamlike imagery that navigates the dualities of life—visible and invisible, conscious and subconscious, real and imagined. Recurring motifs, such as clowns, jugglers, and the enigmatic figure Luqman Ali, reflect his exploration of the human psyche and the complexities of existence.

Throughout his career, Zharotia received numerous accolades, including the National Award from the Lalit Kala Akademi and the Sahitya Kala Parishad Award. His works are part of esteemed collections like the National Gallery of Modern Art, the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, and the Alkazi Collection. Beyond his artistic endeavors, he was deeply involved in children’s education and literature, illustrating stories by authors such as Nirmal Verma and Bertolt Brecht. Zharotia’s legacy endures through his evocative art that continues to inspire and challenge perceptions.