A. Perumal

A. Perumal (1915 – 2004) was an Indian artist associated with the Bengal School of Art. Known for his efforts to make art accessible to tribal communities in and around Shantiniketan, he worked extensively as a painter and sculptor.

Perumal was born in Ammapatti, a village near Uthamapalayam in Theni district, Tamil Nadu. After losing his parents at a young age, he faced significant challenges but excelled in his studies. At 16, he was sent to Shantiniketan by a local freedom fighter. In addition to his visual art, Perumal contributed to art literature by translating Nandalal Bose’s book on art into Tamil under the title Theneer Kalai.

One of Perumal’s significant contributions is his involvement in the illustrations for the Constitution of India. Part 19 of the Constitution, which deals with Miscellaneous provisions, features an illustration of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose saluting in military attire, surrounded by troops. The artwork includes Nandalal Bose's signature, with Perumal's signature visible in the lower-left corner.

In 1999, poet and art critic Indran published Taking His Art to Tribals: Art and Life of A. Perumal of Santiniketan, documenting his contributions. Perumal died in 2004.