Basohli Painting

Artwork – Basohli Painting
Region – Jammu and Kashmir

Basohli painting is a vibrant style of miniature painting from the Jammu and Kashmir region, known for its bold colors, dramatic lines, and striking emotional expression. These paintings often depict themes from Hindu mythology, including stories from the epics, the life of Krishna, and the Gita Govinda, blending folk art with Mughal and Rajput influences from the 17th century onwards.

This particular Basohli-style miniature depicts the Vamana avatar of Lord Vishnu, the fifth incarnation who appeared as a dwarf Brahmin. The composition shows the small, blue-skinned Vamana holding an umbrella as he approaches King Bali, seated on a throne. Characteristic of the Basohli school, the painting features large expressive eyes, stylized facial features, and a flat, often monochromatic background. The scene captures the mythological tale where Vamana humbles King Bali, symbolizing divine wisdom, dharma, and cosmic order, with the contrast in scale enhancing the narrative’s visual and emotional impact.