In Union with Krishna

A 16th century princess from Rajasthan, Mirabai is one of India's greatest bhakti poets. She was a great devotee of Krishna – always immersed in his thoughts and her songs on the Lord deeply move human hearts.

Dressed in simple clothes and ornaments, unlike a princess that she was, she sits on the floor trying to communicate with Lord Krishna. Playing on a single-wired musical instrument with clapper to accompany, she is singing devotional songs. The radiance on her face implies union with her Lord. The artist aptly colours her odhini in yellow, the colour of bhakti.

In the foreground is a tray with ritual objects e.g. garland, holy water, incense sticks and a burning lamp. Mira prepares this 'arti' tray to carry to the temple seen in the background. Beyond the thick silk drapes can be seen shrubs, trees and creepers; a pond with a couple of swans basking in the silent waters. Though painted in one discreet corner, the temple is an integral part of the painting, with the setting sun throwing an aura around it.