A resident of Kalapipal near Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, artist Ram Dongre has been painting since childhood. His father, Babulal Dongre, a commercial artist, influenced his early interest in art.

Pandi Ram Mandavi, an artist hailing from Chhattisgarh's Narayanpur district, has been awarded the Padma Shri, recognizing his exceptional craftsmanship in traditional instruments and wood art.