Step 1: Understanding Modern Indian Painting
- Raja Ravi Varma is regarded as the father of Modern Indian painting. His contributions transformed the art scene in India by incorporating European techniques with Indian themes, and he helped bring Indian art to the global stage.
Step 2: Analyzing the options
- (A) Rabindra Nath Tagore: Rabindra Nath Tagore was a celebrated poet and a painter, but he is not considered the first modern artist in India. His contributions were more focused on literature and performing arts.
- (B) Abanindra Nath Tagore: Abanindra Nath Tagore was a prominent painter but is known for being part of the Bengal School of Art, not the first modern Indian painter.
- (C) Raja Ravi Varma: Correct. Raja Ravi Varma is credited as the first modern Indian artist, as he combined traditional Indian art with European techniques, creating a new genre of art.
- (D) M. F. Hussain: M. F. Hussain was an important modern artist, but he came much later than Raja Ravi Varma, and he is not considered the first modern artist in India.
Step 3: Conclusion
Thus, the correct answer is (C) Raja Ravi Varma, who is regarded as the first artist of Modern Indian painting.
\[
\boxed{\text{Correct Answer: (C) Raja Ravi Varma}}
\]