.Size - 122cm x 92cm

Medium - Acrylic

ARTIST THOUGHT

‘Journey Within’ captures a quiet yet profound moment of spiritual preparation. A sage adorns himself with vibhuti (sacred ash) before offering prayers to the Shiva Lingam, the aniconic representation of Lord Shiva, one of the three principal deities in Hinduism, revered as the force of transformation, dissolution, and renewal.

Beside the Lingam rests Nandi, the sacred bull and Shiva's devoted companion, symbolizing unwavering faith, strength, and surrender.

As the sage prepares for worship, he chants the Gayatri Mantra, one of the oldest and most revered Vedic mantras. Rather than being merely a prayer, it is an invocation for divine wisdom, inner illumination, and the awakening of higher consciousness. The Sanskrit verses flowing across the sage's forehead symbolize that true spirituality is not only spoken but embodied—it becomes part of one's very being.
The mirror in his hand represents self-reflection, reminding us that every sacred ritual begins with an inward journey. Before seeking the Divine in temples or symbols, one must first purify the mind and awaken the spirit within.

‘Journey Within’ explores the timeless relationship between ritual and introspection. It invites the viewer to contemplate the universal truth that the path to the Divine is not only outward, but inward—a journey of self-awareness, devotion, and inner transformation.

Antar Yatra III (Journey within)

Size - 122cm x 92cm

Medium - Acrylic

ARTIST THOUGHT

"Antar Yaatra:"embodies the profound exploration of the inner self. At the heart of the painting, a sage, deeply engaged in spiritual practice, chants the revered Gayatri Mantra—a powerful invocation for enlightenment and wisdom. The mantra, inscribed on his forehead in Hindi, resonates with the essence of existence:

"O thou existence Absolute, Creator of the three dimensions, we contemplate upon thy divine light. May He stimulate our intellect and bestow upon us true knowledge.

Dressing himself in a sacred manner for the Shiva prayer, the sage's preparation signifies both a physical and spiritual readiness to connect with the divine. His chanting is guiding him inward on a transformative journey. As he delves deeper into meditation, he seeks to harmonize with universal energies, aspiring to unite with Lord Shiva (the idol on the left of the artwork),one of the principal deities in Hinduism, symbolizing creation, preservation, and destruction.

The painting captures this sacred moment of introspection and reverence, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys within. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual practices in attaining higher consciousness and the ultimate goal of self-realization.