Prince of Ayodhya

Prince of Ayodhya

Medium : Acrylic on Canvas

Size :

The Lord Rama in this painting is shown about to strike at his opponent, the Demon Ravana who has sinned to the point where he is past redemption. I have drawn inspiration from Guido Reni’s painting of Archangel Michael slaying Satan in creating this work. Similar to Michael who is seen graceful and composed while banishing Satan, Rama is also shown to be killing Ravana in much the similar pose, taking aim with His bow without actually looking at his target. It is evident that Rama has attained a state of omnipotence and thereby, His arrow shall not fail to strike its mark. This painting also depicts Rama levitating several feet above the ground level while taking aim. This represents His momentary transcendence into a fully divine, God-like state. Also, I have depicted the bow as not being pulled by a physical string, but by His Divine Will.

It is noteworthy to mention that the adversaries of both Lord Rama and the Archangel Michael are both Fallen Angels, after a fashion. Also noteworthy that both were Princes, Rama of Ayodhya and Michael, Angel Prince of Israel, and that they were assisted and aided by their three younger brothers.

The careful observer may notice that Rama’s feet are covered by his saffron ascetic-robes. The Lord’s feet are known to be the refuge and sanctuary of those who seek mercy and forgiveness. Thus, by depicting them as being covered by his robes, I have hinted at the fact that the demon Ravana is past redemption and forgiveness due to the heinous nature of his sins and his refusal to ask for forgiveness even when granted a prior chance.

The sun in the background is shown to be experiencing a solar flare. This is my metaphor for the wrath of Rama, who belongs to the Sun Clan, and the clouds clearing which symbolizes clarity. Thus, Judgment shall be passed.