Rajamahendravaram has finally welcomed a new art gallery – more than a century after the historic Rajahmundry Chitra Kalashala was inaugurated in 1923, aimed at grooming young artists. The Chitra Kalasala was founded by the renowned artist Damerla Rama Rao, a protege of the legendary British artist and poet Oswald Jennings Couldrey.

Once home to iconic artists like Adavi Bapiraju and Rama Rao, the city is witnessing history come full circle. A century later, contemporary artist Hari Thadoju is retracing the steps of Rama Rao, aiming to revive the city’s glorious heritage in the world of painting. On the 80th Independence Day, Mr. Hari, a 31-year-old artist and sculptor, launched StroCurve, an academy, he said, is dedicated for arts and cultural excellence, grooming young talents of Rajamahendravaram city, in the medium of canvas painting and sculpture.

“I have determined to provide a platform for those who wish to be groomed in painting and sculpture and a venue for literary discourses and cultural activities, reviving the cultural glory of Rajamahendravaram,” Mr. Hari told The Hindu.

The one-storey building is dedicated to various galleries; works and sculptures of Mr. Hari and four dedicated halls meant for talks, lectures, art exhibitions and book release functions.

“Anybody will be allowed to spend time on the campus, have a glimpse of the works in display, apart from enrolling for professional training sessions on painting,” added Mr. Hari, whose talent was nurtured by his father Suryanarayana.

Mr. Hari works are on display on the campuses of Srisailam temple and Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam. He is known for paintings and sculptors of portraits.

“Artists practicing different mediums and craftspersons of Andhra Pradesh will also be invited for workshops and master classes to our academy as part of cultural exchange,” added Mr. Hari. Rajamahendravaram Member of Parliament D. Purandeswari inaugurated the academy on August 15.

Published - August 23, 2026 09:38 pm IST