SANJHI 08

RADHA-KRISHNA: Sanjhi art is a paper cutting stenciling technique hailing from the city of Mathura in Uttar Pradesh. Deriving its name from the word Sajja or Shringar, meaning decoration, the prominent traditional themes are centred around the Hindu god Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu. According to legend the origin of this artform is linked to Radha- Krishnaís divine consort. She would create these stencils to make rangolis (floor patterns) to please her lover. During the Mughal period when art was patronised by the royal courts, Sanjhi continued to gain traction. Secular themes and decorative motifs were introduced that were appreciated by all. The present work show Krishna and Radha dancing in blissful union. Holding hands, they are spinning in joyful abandon, their haloed figures pointing to their divine origin.