The two subjects, who look at the audience with leisurely expressions in this oil on canvas by Dhiraj Khandelwal, are a father and his daughter. With attention to the details of facial expressions and features, Khandelwal leaves no room for doubt over how the two of them are related to one another. Allowing us to weave a context for this oil painting, he has focused on presenting an affectionate and idyllic picture of the unparalleled bond between a father and daughter.
Bringing a vibrant touch of pious yellow to the canvas, the father is sitting in the right half of the canvas. Signs of religious significance- Tilak (forehead mark), tika (dot marks) on the ear, and a kalava or Mauli (sacred red colored thread) characterize the father as a practicing Hindu, who is probably in a temple complex with his daughter. The facial features, expressions, and posture of the father feel lenient and rather tired as he takes the support of the balustrade. On the left part of this oil on canvas is the figure of the young daughter, whose body language is relatively more attentive, and her gaze more deliberate. She appears to be attempting to mimic her father by placing her hands on the balustrade. Massive bases of the cream-shaded temple pillars give the painting a sprawling appearance and airiness, which is increased by the flowing locks of hair on the little girl’s forehead.
It seems as if the father readied his impressionable child to visit the temple with him, in a bid to instill virtues from a young age. Despite not actively engaging in a conversation, the affinity between the two of them reminds me of the bond we share with our fathers. A protective, ever-present guide is gained by the child in the form of the father who spends his life trying to give their children a meaningful life. Especially in the case of a daughter, the protectiveness and care of a father reach a beautiful peak, which is felt in the everyday, mundane activities of the two. The greying hair of the man reminds us of his aging state and the inevitability of his departure from the earth and his daughter's life. Nonetheless, with moments like this, full of delicateness and emotions, that will later guide the daughter in her life, the father becomes immortal.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist