The Indian art tradition of Orissa’s Pattachitra is deeply rooted in the exciting and morally enriching tales from the rich epic traditions, where the gods, demons, and humans interact to create unique episodes of cultural and ethical value. The Pattachitra painting of Goddess Sita requesting Sri Rama to catch the golden deer is a visual recreation of the same episode from the Ramayana, where Marichi (Ravana’s ally) as an alluring Suvarna (golden-hued) Hirana (deer), catches Devi Sita’s eye, to fulfill whose wish of possessing the deer, Lord Rama follows the shape-shifting demon, and taking advantage of his absence, demon-king Ravana visited the kuti (hut) of Rama-Sita and abducted Maa Sita.
Artist Rabi Behra has proven his mastery once again with the use of eye-catching colors and detailing in the Pattachitra painting. Beautiful floral vines form the border of the scene, where, in the background stands an ethnically decorated hut, in front of which is Lakshmana, who appears to be sharpening his weapons. The heavenly form of Maa standing beside Sri Rama points to the deer who is running towards the unknown wilderness, marked by pointed hilltops, waves of a flowing river, and lush green trees. The mustaches of Sri Rama and Lakshmana in the Pattachitra are quintessential features of male subjects in the art of Orissa. Similarly, the attire and jewelry worn by all three subjects in the painting, are typical of the land of Pattachitra art.
Sri Rama, who was the incarnation of the omnipresent Vishnu himself, was well aware of the consequences of Devi Sita’s request. He had the knowledge of the events that were about to unfold in the aftermath of his following the golden deer. However, in his role in the human realm, as an ideal man, “Purushottama”, Sri Rama had to set an example for the mortals- “when the wife wishes for something, it is the husband’s duty to abide by her wish.” The episode as shown in this appealing Pattachitra is a tale of duty, conjugal warmth, and the endless glory of Sita-Rama in Indian culture and art.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist