Taj hotel’s art treasure to bask in a new glory

Unlike before the terrorist attack, when much of the Taj Mahal Palace hotel’s art treasure was scattered in guestrooms and hallways, the venue will now be showcasing its proud possessions prominently in three locations: a lounge, a banquet hall and a sea-facing bar off its main lobby.

Writer Vikas Bajaj mentions in an exclusive New York Times report how the valuable works of art at the prestigious hotel have been restored, partly soothing the scars of the three-day siege in Mumbai in 2008, when the city’s landmark was ravaged by fires, gunshots and grenade explosions. Recounting the horrific experience and the ravages of the attack, the news report reveals:

“The roof collapsed, and intricate woodwork was burned. Paintings by modern Indian masters like VS Gaitonde and Jehangir Sabavala were covered in soot and fungus, which thrived in the humid air after air-conditioners gave out, and sprinklers and fire trucks doused the building with water."

Now these artist’s works are being put up on display just before the Palace Wing’s reopening on India’s Independence Day. Of course, the hotel has always been known for its art treasures, but they were not retained and recorded properly. To correct this situation, it hired art specialist Mortimer Chatterjee, a few years ago.

The expert touch was sought for cataloging and preserving the collection. Several noteworthy works, including a large work by SH Raza, thankfully escaped damage since they happened to be in storage, slated for a round of cleaning and restoration, when the venue was attacked by terrorists in 2008.

According to Mr. Mortimer Chatterjee, other pieces on display at the time of the terrorist attack needed significant restoration work because soot particles and fungus became embedded in their fine paint and delicate canvases. One work that was particularly challenging was Laxman Pai’s light-blue abstract work, embellished with deft grooves & ridges, which needed extra care during clean-up.