In the classic idiom of Kishangarh, Gaurav Rajput’s watercolor painting brings to life the image of a Nayika or heroine, pinning for her beloved, and pained by his absence. In the Nayika-bhed of Keshvadasa, she is known as “Virahotkanthita Nayika”, suffering from separation or Virah. Against the rich background of banana grooves, symbolizing the spurt of youth and fecundity in nature, the youthful Nayika sits attired regally. Her long tresses, pearled ornaments, and silken garments cannot take attention away from her moon-like face, shadowed by the distress of not meeting her beloved.

The lotuses of her eyes and the ones lying next to her have lost all hope of seeing Nayaka, who is away and unable to reach her on time. The delicate image of a heart in love is surrounded by a broad border of flowers in the style of Indian miniatures. Painted with finesse and linked to the traditional aesthetics of India, this watercolor painting is a beautiful window to the poetry of the human heart.