Born in 1914 in Hyderabad, KH Ara also known as Krishnaji Howlaji Ara, was an eminent Indian artist and one of the founding members of the Progressive Indian Artists Group in Mumbai. 

Ara's early artistic training started at the JJ School of Art in Mumbai, where he honoed his skills and developed a foundation in academic art. However, his true artistc evolution occured when he joined the Bombay Progressive Artist's group in the late 1940's. This group which inlcuded prominent artists like FN Souza and MF Husain sought to break away from traditional academic art and explore new forms of expression, reflecting the changing social and politial landscape in India. 

In the 1950s Ara moved to Paris to further his artistic education at the renowned Ecole Des Beaux - Arts. During his time in Europe, he was exposed to various artistic movements, which influenced his style and expanded his artistic horizons. 

Apart from his artistic achievements KH Ara also contributed to art education and served as a teacher at the Sir JJ School of Art. His mentorship and influence on aspiring artists were invaluble in shaping the future generation of Indian Artists.