1. Ganesha
Meaning and origin: Ganesha is also known as Vinayaka or Ganapati, the elephant-headed God of wisdom, new beginnings, and knowledge. He is the son Shiva and Parvati, and is widely worshipped in India and elsewhere.
Depictions: Ganesha has an elephant's head, large stomach, four arms and is usually depicted holding a goad or noose. He may also be shown with a broken tusk and a bowl full of sweets.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Jamini roy: He is known for his vibrant and simplistic depictions of Ganesha, in a style that was inspired by Bengali folk arts.
- M.F. Husain: Created abstract, modern versions of Ganesha by blending traditional iconography and contemporary art forms.
- Sarla chandra Her paintings of Ganesha combine traditional elements and modern aesthetics.
2. Shiva
Meaning and Origin Shiva is one of Hinduism's principal deities. He is also known as the destroyer, and transformer, within the Trimurti which includes Brahma, and Vishnu. He is usually shown in meditation with a third-eye, holding a tridents, and wearing a snake around his neck.
Depictions Shiva is shown in many forms, such as Nataraja the Lord of Dance (or Nataraja), Ardhanarishvara half-man/half-woman (or Ardhanarishvara), or as a meditative Yogi.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma : Created iconic Shiva paintings, combining traditional Indian themes and European techniques.
- Tyeb mehta His works explore themes of mythology and reality. They include powerful abstract depictions of Shiva.
- Nandalal BOSE Known for his detailed, dynamic and colorful illustrations of Shiva.
3. Vishnu
Origin: Vishnu, the Hindu Trimurti's protector and preserver of the universe is often depicted with four arms. He is usually depicted as having four arms and holding a conch, a diskus, a mace, and a lotus.
Artistic Illustrations: Vishnu's various avatars are often shown, including Rama Krishna and Narasimha. Each represents different aspects of Vishnu's divine nature.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- S.H. Raza: Many of his abstract works incorporate symbols that are associated with Vishnu and reflect the spiritual essence the deity.
- Bikash Bhattacharjee : Created realistic, emotive and realistic depictions of Vishnu.
- F.N. Souza: Some of his works include religious themes. Vishnu is one example. He portrays Vishnu in a unique and expressive style.
4. Krishna
Meaning and Origin: Krishna is an incarnation Vishnu and a central Hindu figure. He is known as a divine lover and a mischievous boy, but also for being the charioteer of the Bhagavad-Gita.
Depictions: Krishna appears in many artistic depictions, such as when he is playing the flute surrounded by cowherd girls or scenes from Mahabharata.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma His paintings of Krishna often show the deity in heroic or romantic poses.
- K. G. Subramanyan : Known as a master of combining traditional and modern elements to create vibrant and playful Krishna depictions.
- Anjolie Menon Her modern interpretations explore themes of divinity, human emotion and spirituality.
5. Lakshmi
Meaning and origin: Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune and prosperity, is also known as Lakshmi. She is Vishnu's consort and is worshipped at festivals like Diwali.
Depictions: Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, is usually depicted seated on a lotus or standing, her hands dripping with gold coins.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma : Created several Lakshmi paintings, emphasizing their grace and beauty.
- Jamini roy His Lakshmi depictions are marked by bold colors and lines, which are inspired by folklore.
- Bikash Bhattacharjee : His realistic works capture the serene, benevolent and peaceful nature of Lakshmi.
6. Durga
Meaning and Origin: Durga, the warrior goddess is known for her strength. She is usually depicted on a tiger or lion, riding it to slay the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Depictions: Durga's multiple arms each hold a weapon symbolizing her martial prowess and power.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Jamini roy His folk-inspired Durga paintings are known for their powerful imagery and simplicity.
- Ganesh Pyne: Renowned for his dark, intense portrayals of Durga that reflect the fierce nature of the goddess.
- Bikash Bhattacharjee : Created realistic, evocative and powerful portraits of Durga. Captured her strength and divinity.
7. Saraswati
Meaning and Origin: Saraswati, the goddess of music, knowledge, art and wisdom, is often depicted playing a veena. She is usually depicted with a veena in her hand, which symbolizes her connection to art.
Depictions: Saraswati, the goddess of learning and spirituality, is often depicted seated on lotus or a bird, with a book in her hand and a rosary around her neck.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma His paintings of Saraswati have been praised for their elegance and details.
- Nandalal BOSE: Created peaceful and graceful Saraswati depictions, highlighting the divine attributes of Saraswati.
- Anjolie Menon Her portrayals of Saraswati in contemporary contexts explores the goddess's modern role.
8. Hanuman
Origins and Meaning: Hanuman is the monkey deity and a symbol for strength, loyalty, and devotion. He has a major role in the Ramayana.
Depictions: Hanuman's unwavering loyalty towards Rama is shown in many ways, including in an action pose carrying a mountain or in a devotional, humble position.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma : Created dynamic, heroic depictions Hanuman to emphasize his strength and dedication.
- Rameshwar Broota His Hanuman paintings are known for the powerful and emotional portrayal of Hanuman.
- K. G. Subramanyan : Often depicted Hanuman with a vibrant and playful style, reflecting his multifaceted nature.
9. Parvati
Meaning and Origin Parvati is a goddess of love and fertility. She also represents devotion. She is the consort and mother of Ganesha, Kartikeya and Shiva.
Depictions Parvati is usually depicted alongside Shiva or as a nurturing mom, symbolizing both her role as divine consort and mother.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma His paintings of Parvati, which often show her in scenes of divine romance with Shiva, are celebrated for their beauty.
- Nandalal BOSE: He is known for his expressive and detailed portrayals of Parvati. His works capture her maternal and divine aspects.
- Anjolie Menon Her contemporary depictions explore the goddess's modern role.
10. Kali
Meaning and Origin: Kali is a fierce goddess of destruction, time and death. She is usually depicted as having a dark complexion and wearing a skull garland, while standing on Shiva.
Depictions: Kali is depicted in a fierce, powerful pose that symbolizes her role as the destroyer and protector of good.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Jamini Roy: His paintings of Kali, inspired by folk art, are known for the bold colors and lines.
- Jogen chowdhury : Created intense, powerful and fearsome depictions of Kali that reflect her terrifying nature.
- Ganesh Python: His dark, introspective portrayals explore Kali's complex personality.
11. Rama
Meaning and Origin: Rama is Vishnu's seventh avatar and the hero in the Ramayana. He is known as a man of righteousness, courage, and devotion to the dharma.
Depictions: Rama with his bow and Arrow, often accompanied by Sita and Lakshmana. Hanuman, Rama's devotee, is also shown.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma His paintings of Rama often depict scenes from the Ramayana in great detail with emotion.
- Nandalal BOSE: He is known for his narrative and dynamic illustrations of Rama’s adventures.
- Anjolie Menon Her portrayals of Rama in the modern world explores Rama's relevance today.
12. Sita
Meaning and Origin: Sita represents purity, devotion and courage. She is a key character in the Ramayana.
Artistic Representations: Sita's scenes in the Ramayana are often represented in artistic depictions, including her abduction by Ravana and her trials in Lanka.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma : Created beautiful and emotional paintings of Sita that highlight her virtues and struggle.
- Nandalal Bose: He is known for his narrative and detailed depictions of Sita’s journey.
- Anjolie Menon: explores themes of feminine strength and resilience in her modern interpretations.
13. Kartikeya
Origins and Meaning: Kartikeya is also known as Murugan or Skanda and is the son of Shiva. He is particularly revered in South India.
Depictions: Kartikeya, a young warrior, is usually shown riding on a peacock and holding a spear.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma : Created dynamic, heroic portrayals of Kartikeya.
- Sarla chandra: Her modern paintings of Kartikeya combine traditional iconography and contemporary styles.
- Nandalal Bose: He is known for his narrative and detailed illustrations of Kartikeya’s exploits.
14. Radha
Meaning and origin: Radha, the beloved consort Krishna, is a symbol of divine love and devotion. Her stories are prominently featured in Vaishnavism, Bhakti Literature and other Hinduisms.
Artistic Illustrations: Radha and Krishna are often shown in scenes of devotion, romance, or romantic love, which symbolise the eternal love between them.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma : Created romantic, detailed paintings of Radha Krishna.
- K. G. Subramanyan: Known as a vibrant artist who creates playful and colorful depictions of Radha Krishna.
- Anjolie Menon: Her portrayals of Radha in contemporary times explore themes of devotion and love.
15. Brahma
Meaning and Origin: Brahma, the Hindu creator god, is part of the Trimurti along with Vishnu. He is worshipped less than other deities.
Depictions: Brahma has four faces, four arms and is usually shown holding a waterpot, a spoon and the Vedas.
Artists and Artworks of Notable Note
- Raja Ravi Varma His paintings of Brahma capture the creative side of the god.
- Nandalal BOSE is known for his narrative and traditional illustrations of Brahma.
- Anjolie Menon Her contemporary depictions explore Brahma's importance in modern contexts.
16. Indra
Origin and Significance: Indra is the king of the gods and the god of rain and thunderstorms.
Artistic Depictions: Indra is depicted riding his elephant, Airavata, holding a thunderbolt.
Notable Artists and Artworks:
- Raja Ravi Varma: Detailed, majestic paintings.
- Bikash Bhattacharjee: Realistic portrayals.
17. Agni
Origin and Significance: Agni is the god of fire and is central to Vedic rituals.
Artistic Depictions: Agni is depicted with two faces, representing his destructive and beneficial aspects.
Notable Artists and Artworks:
- Jamini Roy: Bold, folk-inspired depictions.
- Ganesh Pyne: Intense, introspective portrayals.
18. Surya
Origin and Significance: Surya is the sun god and represents vitality and life.
Artistic Depictions: Surya is depicted riding a chariot drawn by seven horses.
Notable Artists and Artworks:
- Raja Ravi Varma: Majestic, detailed paintings.
- Nandalal Bose: Traditional, narrative illustrations.
19. Chandra
Origin and Significance: Chandra is the moon god, associated with the mind and emotions.
Artistic Depictions: Chandra is depicted riding a chariot drawn by ten white horses.
Notable Artists and Artworks:
- Raja Ravi Varma: Graceful, detailed paintings.
- Jamini Roy: Bold, colorful depictions.
20. Varuna
Origin and Significance: Varuna is the god of water and the celestial ocean, as well as law and the underworld.
Artistic Depictions: Varuna is depicted riding a makara (a mythical sea creature).
Notable Artists and Artworks:
- Raja Ravi Varma: Detailed, majestic paintings.
- Nandalal Bose: Traditional, narrative illustrations.
The rich tapestry and religious art of India is reflected in the works and artists that represent its spiritual and cultural heritage. Each artist contributes their own unique style and perspective to the vibrant and diverse landscape of Indian religious artwork.
