FROM EPIC TO IMAGE: THE RAMAYANA AND MAHABHARATA IN INDIAN PAINTING AND VISUAL ART

Abstract [English]

The document examines the profound connection between Hindu mythology and Indian art, highlighting how mythology has consistently inspired creativity over the ages. It portrays mythology as a mirror of human aspirations, trepidations, principles, and ethical direction, initially conveyed through oral storytelling and subsequently codified in sacred texts.
Hindu mythology is depicted as an extensive and communal tradition rather than the vision of an individual prophet, classified into six primary categories: Shrutis, Smritis, Epics, Puranas, Agamas, and Darshanas. Within this framework, the Ramayana and Mahabharata emerge as the most significant epics, greatly influencing Indian spiritual thought, culture, and artistic endeavors.
The Ramayana, written by Maharishi Valmiki, recounts the saga of Lord Rama as a model ruler and a paragon of virtue. In addition to the central story, it features multiple sub-narratives that enhance its philosophical and moral richness.
The Mahabharata, compiled by Vedavyasa, is a far more extensive epic focused on the clash between the Pandavas and Kauravas, with Lord Krishna serving as its philosophical essence. It encompasses intricate narratives that explore themes of ethics, responsibilities, devotion, and the human condition, making it one of the most intricate literary masterpieces globally.
The document emphasizes the extensive representation of scenes from both epics in Indian art forms, including temple sculptures, murals, miniature paintings, and manuscripts found in regions like Ellora, Mahabalipuram, Hampi, Rajasthan, Kerala, and Mysore. These artistic depictions played a crucial role in making the epics accessible to both educated and uneducated audiences. It further addresses the significance of miniature painting traditions—such as those from the Rajasthani, Mughal, and Pahari schools—in depicting epic stories. The patronage from royal figures, notably Rana Jagat Singh and Mughal emperor Akbar, was instrumental in maintaining and disseminating these visual art forms.
Additionally, the study investigates how contemporary Indian artists—including Raja Ravi Varma, Nandalal Bose, M.F. Husain, Jamini Roy, Ganesh Pyne, among others—have reinterpreted the epics through modern styles, personal symbolism, and current perspectives, ensuring the narratives remain pertinent in evolving cultural contexts.
Ultimately, the document highlights the role of cultural festivals, workshops, and national events like Gita Jayanti, Ramayana Melas, and Mahabharata workshops in fostering ongoing interest in epic traditions. In conclusion, it asserts that the Ramayana and Mahabharata have greatly impacted not only Indian painting but also literature, music, dance, theatre, cinema, and popular culture, continuously influencing Indian identity and artistic expression.