The Earthy Beauty Of Devi Ganga

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"Darshanatsparshanatpanattatha Gangeti/Keertanat punatyapunyapurushana shatashotha sahasrasha" is how Vishnuji explains the importance of the sacred Ganga to Garuda. The biggest of India's river basins, the Ganga finds mention across the Puranas as much as any other deity. The Hindus worship the river in the form of Devi Ganga, a popular deity of the North whose rich plains owe their beauty and importance to the silt-laden river. Therefore she is revered as the very symbol of nourishment and plenty.

Artish Kailash Raj's watercolour of this deified personification is flawless in terms of iconography as well as workmanship. The beautiful Devi sits on the lotus-strewn waters atop a fish, its silvery lifelike features painted with great skill. She is dressed in consummate North Indian fashion, in colours that are earthy and basic. Her wrists and ankles are adorned with ample pearls, gold, and jewels, while necklaces of varying lengths grace Her torso. Her hands are raised in blessing to Her devotees. The beauty of Her countenance is sublime; the composure, of supreme benevolence.

The classically handsome face of Devi Ganga will fill your space with divine fervour. Richly lined eyes, full shapely mouth, and rubescent skin tone are framed by ringlets of the gorgeous black mane that reaches all the way down Her spine. The most unusual aspect of this simple watercolour is the Devi's crown, with the choicest rubies and emeralds carved into paisleys and set against solid gold. The halo behind Her head shines with unparalleled splendour.

The still, every-so-gently rippling waters lead up to a landscape of hills coated in shades and tints of green. The waters have descended from the lap of those lush hills. Pictures against the soft golden glow of the Indian twilight skies, their luxuriance is unmistakable.