Purnna Behera is a notable contemporary Indian artist originally from Odisha. Born on March 5, 1982, he received his formal artistic training at the B.K. College of Art & Crafts in Bhubaneswar, earning his Bachelor’s degree in 2004 and his Master’s degree in Fine Arts in 2006.

Behera’s art is mostly created using mixed media and often carries a dreamlike, surreal quality. A major theme in his expressive paintings is the balance and division of roles between men and women in society. He highlights how different genders face unique challenges, contrasting the desire to build a dream home with the basic struggle for daily survival. Ultimately, his pieces advocate for complete gender equality.