Pichwai- that which hangs at the back (Piche) is the art form that originated from the Pushti Marga tradition or Vallabha Sampradaya of Vallabhacharya, centered on the worship of Srinath Ji of Nathdwara.
A Pichwai painting acts as the adornment of the shrine of Srinath Ji as well as a spiritual visual tool, which with its scenes, colors, and the icon of Srinath Ji in this center, becomes a part of the larger experience of performing a ritual, standing inside the Sanctorum.
The themes of a Pichwai painting include 24 annual festive occasions of the Pushtimargis and 8 daily ritual performances (Darshana) of Srinath Ji. In this Pichwai of Srinath Ji, the celebration of Annakutotsava, in the memory of lifting the mount Govardhana is depicted.
The form of Srinath Ji in this Pichwai is “Sapta Swarooopa”- seven (sapta) swaroopa (own forms) gracing the sanctum of the shrine on the canvas. The dark-blue-hued body of Krishna is ornamented with rich jewelry, crown, and peacock feathers, and his left hand raised in a distinctive manner hints at the lifting of the mount Govardhana.
The mountain holds a revered spot in the traditions of the Pushtimargis because the icon of Srinath Ji was discovered on it. It is also exalted as Annakuta or the mountain of foodgrain, celebrating and remembering the nourishment Govardhana provided to the residents of Brija. In this Srinath Ji Pichwai, the mountain of foodgrain is represented by baskets of leaves full of grains and curds placed in front of the icon of Srinath Ji in a structure of a mound.
Behind Srinath Ji, exquisite decorations with the Tree of Life motif remind us of the Meenakari work of Indian palaces. On each side of the shrine stand two priests known as Gosain or Goswami Ji who for generations have been sworn servants and devotees of Srinath Ji.
The Pichwai of Srinath Ji here is a narration of the coming together of the powerful seven forms of Srinath Ji in the pious land of Nathdwara. Rich in colors and endowed with masterful details and finish, this Pichwai is a comprehensive shrine on canvas and condensation of the celebration of the benevolence of Srinath Ji, who protected Brija-kshetra (area) from the fury of Indra.
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