Her almond eyes, her slender body, her jewelry and clothing like that of a queen’s, her bed which has been made, and the solitude of her single room haveli (house) - all belong to her lover. The heroine or Nayika in this Basohli painting is the Mugdha (newly wed) Vasaksajja (decked up) nayika, based on the Rasamanjari of Bhanudatta.
Presenting Krishna and Radha, the timeless lovers, in the role of the hero and heroine, this excellent Basohli painting fills the viewer’s heart with the Rasa or juice/emotions of romance, longing, and the bliss of union.
Kailash Raj, the painter of this work has to be applauded for the use of vibrant colours for the building- green on the walls, orange on the curtains, yellow on the carpet, and pink on the bedspread bring a dramatic feel to the room, on the entrance of which sits Radha, fully decked up and lost in the thoughts of making love with her beloved.
With bejewelled toe rings, multi-layered necklaces, and other fineries, she looks like an exquisite newlywed. The marble building painted in white provides a fitting background against which Radha’s beauty appears enchanting. Outside the house, trees are flower-laden, vines growing on them heavily with the weight of beautiful flowers.
As far as the eye goes, the space is filled with lively green, symbolic of new beginnings. The dark-skinned Krishna, standing in the garden, wearing a yellow dhoti and matching scarf, decked in adornments, Vanmala (garland made from wildflowers), with his skin covered in designs made with a pleasing red dye is appealing to the eye.
He sniffs the lotus in his hand, and its sweet scent reminds him of the charming company of Radha. His steps quicken and the sound from his khadaun (sandals) brings the news of his arrival to Radha. A much-awaited union is about to ensue!
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