The discussion on Indian calligraphy cannot be complete without the mention of Achyut Palav. In a field which the electronic medium has overpowered, Achyut Palav has been making significant contribution to bring forth traditional and modern calligraphy to masses. Through his various exhibitions and workshops in India and abroad, he has demonstrated calligraphy in English & Devnagari. His works are used in advertising, fashion, electronic media, interiors & architectures, events… Many a prominent individuals & organizations have his creations in their collection like the Stiftung archives, Germany & European Contemporary Museum of Calligraphy, Russia. He has worked with the eminent calligraphers like Late R.K.Joshi & Prof. Wernier Schnider. Mr. Palav has scores of publications, exhibitions and awards to his name. He has also established the first ever school of calligraphy in India, which is an attempt to reach out to the youth & propagate the widespread commercial application of calligraphy. Palav has made significant contribution to the upkeep of the traditional and modern calligraphy. It is a very difficult endeavor yet he has stuck to it and ensured that it reaches newer heights of glory.
Abstract from Achyut Palav’s Presentation at the ‘Icograda World Design Congress 2009’
….Today I speak to you about communication. The word has many meanings. Communication means a statement, a message or simply a thought passed on. My expertise, calligraphy refers to the written mode, but it does not only mean attractive writing… it goes beyond that. When a person learns to write, he becomes literate & when he understands the essence of letters, he transforms into an artist. It is as simple as this, when you read a novel or mere story; you read it for relaxation or without further thought to the act of reading. But on the other hand, a spiritual literature will be read more attentively with the quest to discover the truth & deeper meaning into the content. Calligraphy is the same according to me. Each word, line, phrase has a meaning & calligraphy aims at communicating the thought process & premise of the text. Calligraphy is the expression & perception of written words.
