Birth of Lord Krishna

Birth of Lord Krishna

Kangra Miniature by Fattu. Mid- 1770s, National Museum, New Delhi

            Today is Janamashthami, the birth day of Lord Krishna. The famous painter of Kangra School, Fattu has illustrated the Bhagwat Puran.  Let me take you through his masterpieces.  

            Yashoda has woken up in the morning. She thinks she has given birth to a male child. In the ladies quarter ( zannana) she sits with Krishna, who is suckling her. Women have gathered. They offer her the blades of 'Kush' grass. There is the old midwife who seems to be instructing her in feeding technique. 

           Meanwhile,  news has travelled through Vrindawan that Nanda has been blessed with a son. The dancer, the musicians have started the celebrations; the people are thronging the "palace". An old woman, a Brahmin with his skull cap, a young woman have reached the door of the "palace" only to be let in by the old doorkeeper and the maid. 

           The celebrations of Janamashthami have begun !

           The painting is  unique for its fusion of Mughal miniature art with the Pahari art of Kangra School.  Most importantly, it tells us about the social customs, the social segregation, the social relationship between the headman of the village, Nanda, and the villagers. Fattu has a unique way of capturing the different strata of society and presenting them in an interesting manner. 

           Lord Krishna has started showing his 'lela' ( illusions) the moment he is born. Though not the son of Yashoda and Nanda, he is Nandalal  ( the son of Nanda). His divine presence attracts one and all. In His presence we are all equal. Let us celebrate that equanimity.  Let us celebrate life!