OUR STORY
About Temple of Fine Arts
OUR PHILOSOPHY
Art, Just for the Love of It
The Temple of Fine Arts (TFA) is a cultural institution where all arts, and the Indian arts in particular, are cherished, taught, practiced and offered back to the community — just for the love of it.
Founded in 1981 by His Holiness Swami Shantanand Saraswathi, The Temple of Fine Arts was born from a profound belief that the arts have the power to transform, uplift and unite. The institution was established not as a commercial enterprise, but as a sacred space where tradition meets devotion.
The Guru-Shishya (teacher-student) tradition forms the bedrock of all learning at TFA. This ancient pedagogical model emphasises not just technical mastery, but the cultivation of discipline, humility, and a deep personal relationship with one’s art form.
OUR FOUNDER
His Holiness Swami Shantanand Saraswathi
His Holiness Swami Shantanand Saraswathi, fondly referred to as Swamiji, founded the Temple of Fine Arts (TFA) in 1981. With the intent of uplifting mankind through the arts, TFA was established to allow both student and teacher to grow with inner peace and joy.
His unique vision has allowed the young and old alike, to rediscover the magnificent cultural and artistic heritage of India through the TFA institutions established all over the world.
OUR JOURNEY
A Legacy of Artistic Excellence
OUR VALUES
Guiding Principles
Devotion
Art as an offering — practiced with love, humility and spiritual intention.
Tradition
Preserving the ancient Guru-Shishya lineage while embracing thoughtful evolution.
Inclusivity
Open to all races, religions and backgrounds — united by a shared love for art.
Service
Art in service of community, not commerce. TFA operates as a non-profit institution.