"People's attitude towards art has changed over the years. People now evaluate a painting not only from an artistic point of view but also from its rupee worth in the market," says Katayun Saklat, fondly referred to as the grand dame of Kolkata's art scenario.

Saklat set up Gallery Katayun at Auckland Place in central Kolkata many years back. "The art bazaar has reached its peak now and we can soon expect to see Indian art works selling for billions of dollars."

A (M F) Husain painting at present can fetch anything between Rs 2 crores (Rs 20 million) and Rs 4 crores (Rs 40 million). A (Tyeb) Mehta work, too, can get an almost similar price tag.
Image: The Trusted Bull, a painting by Tyeb Mehta (inset) is on display at a preview for Indian modern and antique art and artifacts at Sotheby's Auction House, in London.