Artworks

Prayer Flags or Patakas

These are commonly seen in the Himalayan belt. The locals believe that the prayers written on these flags are passed on to their loved ones by the wind which passes through it. These colorful pieces are usually made of Muslin cloth. The ones made by me are in Ceramic with Mantras written in Sanskrit. These Shlokas or Mantras are about nature, they are from the Vedas, the Holy Books in Hinduism. These 4 Vedas set guidelines about how to live your life. The Gods are based on nature or attributes derived from nature. Brahma is the creator, Vishnu nurtures the creation, and Shiva destroys and gives space to recreate. All the elements of nature are then classified with different demigods who are ruled by the three main god’s .Each Flag has a Symbolic representation of the 5 elements of Nature and the Mantra associated with it. The motifs are associated with the Hymns .They are in salutation of the Sun, Moon, Trees or even Mother Nature. As a part of the ritual or culture a person recites them every morning and evening.

My installation is inspired from the practice and philosophical virtues of these rituals. A salutation to Nature or you can say a poem to Nature.
Krishna gayatri – This poem is in praise of the mythological lord Krishna. In the Vedas, he is the form of Vishnu who is god of prosperity. The symbol is Chakra and is responsible for the nurturing of all beings. Also associated with water and wind. Each of the hymns is thanking for these elements. They also praise the feeling of satisfaction one has when the quench is fulfilled by drinking water. At the same time the poem applauds the god for the rain cycle.

Krishna Gayatri

Vruksha Prashansa

Vruksha prashansa – PRAISING THE TREE. This poem praises the beauty of a tree. The mighty trunk, the rustling leaves and serenity it brings to oneself. It also applauds the greatness of the tree for providing food, shelter, and clothing. The unconditional love it showers on all the beings on earth.

Suraya Namaskar – Literal meaning is greetings to the Sun. It is a combination of Yoga exercises and the mantra. , we offer our most humble obeisance to the great source without which, our lives would not be possible. Their hymn narrates the strength and energy that is derived from the Sun. It says that our body and soul humbly bow before you and we are eternally grateful to you.

Nagamstotrum – This is a special hymn for the snakes. It also represents the rodents and other small animals that are part of our ecosystem. The poem applauds and respects their existences. This hymn is a salutation to every creature. Every being is there for a reason, it teaches you and has an impact on your life.

Suraya Namaskar

Nagamstotrum