VIJAY SADASHIV MASHE-WARLI ART-Maharashtra-India-Rural-element-people-festive-tarpa-firecrackers (VSM 17)

Tarpa dance is the traditional ceremonial dance of the Warli community, performed by men and women on important occasions. This canvas depicts activities related to Diwali celebrations. The mesmerizing circular composition of the dancing figures takes up most of the canvas. Although stationary, the concentric formation seems echo a thumping beat. The rhythm of the real dance is successfully evoked by the fine brushstrokes of Vijay Sadashiv Mashe. Tarpa’s open-ended spiral formation symbolizes the cycle of life- a universal concept that lays at the core of Warli belief systems. Sparklers and firecrackers in the work also suggest a festive time as well. The womenfolk are busy preparing the sweets and savory for the special occasion.