Immensely detailed and in keeping with the iconography of the ten-armed form of Sri Ganesha, also known as Maha Ganapati, this monotone Ganesha Patachitra by Rabi Behra is a powerful Tantric representation of the Hindu elephant-faced deity, and a mesmerizing retelling of his victory over the pride of serpent Vasuki, who he has stretched over his head.
The Sri Ganesha Patachitra is framed by a single maroon border, paralleled by a network of floral vines drawn with beautiful symmetry. In the foreground of the Patachitra, the massive and ornate throne of Sri Ganesha catches the eye, with its lotus petal-shaped decoration and beautiful women with hamsa (a symbol of pure wisdom). On the platform, an exquisite ritual lamp with the Annapakshi (golden goose) motif is placed, lightening up the shrine of the majestic Maha Ganapati, who stands atop a fully blossomed lotus, in the Sampada-sthanaka posture (where weight is carried on both feet).
Above the image of Maha Ganapati is a stately arch, similar to the structures of the great Hindu temples, ornamented with the anthropomorphic form of the “Kirtimukha” or the Face of Glory in the center and two Makara (mythical creatures, signifying royalty and divinity) on the sides. In the brackets on the sides of the arch, two celestial maidens with wings and youthful forms are encapsulated, a figure which is also repeated on the top of the arch, where the maidens hold the uppermost end of the shrine and appear to be carrying it in the air.
The figures of young Apsaras (heavenly maidens) alongside peacocks on the arch act as an extension of the elephant-headed god’s magnificent aura, who is the most glorious being in three realms. Parallel to the arch of the shrine, a twisted body of a snake forms a second curve over Sri Ganesha’s head. This snake can be identified with Vasuki, the serpent with whom Maha Ganapati fought a vicious battle.
Credit goes to Rabi Behra, for creating a divine visual experience by using a single shade on the canvas, relying on his mastered skills of detailing with impeccable clarity. An absorbing evocation to the powers of Maha Ganapati, this Patachitra of Sri Ganesha turns us into human and animal devotees, worshipping at the feet of the Lord of the Universe.
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