The National Center of Performing Arts was established in 1966 to preserve and promote India rich cultural heritage in classical and folk music, dance and drama. Apart from its traditional art schools, India also has a contemporary art lineage that began in the early fifties. While pioneers like MF Hussain and FN Souza spearheaded this modern art movement, Mumbai was the cradle of these brave new aesthetes.
Today, contemporary Indian art is known to the world over, which can be viewed at the National Gallery of Modern Art bang opposite the Prince of Wales Museum. Converted from an old public hall, this dynamic, three tiered structure houses collections from India's best known living artists providing a convenient overview of the country's contemporary art scenario.