The British colonial bias towards fine arts in India was rooted in a belief that Indians lacked the ability to create fine art. This bias was a result of the British colonial mindset that considered themselves culturally superior to the indigenous people they colonized. The British viewed Indian art as primitive and lacking in artistic skill and creativity. This biased perspective had significant implications for the development and recognition of Indian art during the colonial period.

Colonial Assumptions:
- The British colonizers believed that Indian art was inferior to European art, which they considered the standard of fine art.
- They considered Indian art to be devoid of originality and creativity, dismissing it as traditional and repetitive.
- The British believed that Indian artists were incapable of producing art that met the standards of realism and naturalism, which were highly valued in European art.

Impact on Indian Art:
- The British colonial bias had a detrimental effect on the recognition and appreciation of Indian art. Indian artists were often marginalized and their work was not given the same level of importance as European art.
- British collectors and art institutions focused primarily on acquiring European art, neglecting the rich artistic traditions of India.
- Indian artists were often compelled to produce art that catered to the tastes and preferences of the British, leading to the suppression of their own artistic expressions and traditions.
- The British colonial bias also influenced the education and training of Indian artists. Indian art schools were established under the British administration, but they were primarily focused on teaching European art techniques rather than nurturing and promoting indigenous artistic styles.

Legacy:
- The British colonial bias towards Indian art had a long-lasting impact on the perception and understanding of Indian art. It perpetuated a narrative that Indian art was inferior and lacking in artistic merit.
- It took several decades after India gained independence for Indian art to regain its recognition and appreciation on a global scale.
- Today, there is a growing recognition of the richness and diversity of Indian art, and efforts are being made to reclaim and revive indigenous artistic traditions that were suppressed during the colonial period.