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Smita Lakhanpal

"I always enjoyed painting during my school and college days, but it was just a hobby. I lost touch with it after I married, because I had to look after my children. In 1998, after my children grew up, I started reconnecting with my hobby again. I don't know why, but somehow I was always inclined toward painting. In 2002, my husband died in an accident. His untimely demise left me devastated. I took refuge and solace in painting to divert my mind.

"I was born in Punjab in 1959, where I received a bachelor's degree in home science from the Government Home Science College in Chandigarh and another in education from Firozepur.

"In 2004, I moved to Nagpur to stay with my son who was studying there. In Nagpur, I was fortunate to meet an artist. He taught me the traditional Tanjore painting technique for one year. It was a beautiful experience.

"We shifted to Gurgoan the following year, where I got in touch with another great artist, my guru Sunil Jaiswal [a Novica-featured painter]. He guided me in the use of acrylic colors and taught me to bring texture effects to my paintings.

"I now teach this art to my family and friends, and feel very satisfied. My other activities include traveling and gardening, both of which bring me closer to the environment from which I draw my inspiration to work.

"My future plan is to reach out to more and more people through my artwork."

Smita Lakhanpal has exhibited her works in a number of prestigious venues in India.