Rounak Rai’s Ahilya Uddhar captures a deeply emotional and spiritual moment from the Ramayana—the liberation of Ahilya by Lord Ram. Painted in bold acrylic and ink, this work is layered with symbolism, mythology, and cultural nuance, expressed through Rai’s distinctive folk-modern style.
At the center of the painting stands Ahilya, once cursed and turned to stone, shown here in dark tones—still in the form of her penance, hands joined in eternal prayer. As Ram enters the frame, guided by Vishwamitra and followed by Lakshman, his divine presence alone breaks the curse, bringing light and redemption to Ahilya’s soul.
The background, rich in shades of red, symbolizes both suffering and the energy of transformation. The figures around Ahilya—sages, possibly her husband Gautam Rishi, and celestial beings—reflect the spiritual magnitude of this moment. Their gestures are of reverence and witnessing, creating a sense of sacred drama.
The Hindi text written in the backdrop enriches the scene:
“Ram ne Gautam rishi ke aashram mein pravesh karte hi Ahilya devi ko sparsh kar diya. Jai Shri Ram!”
This inscription brings the myth to life and reinforces the theme of divine grace, central to this episode.
Rounak’s use of line and composition evokes both stillness and revelation. With minimal yet expressive forms, he tells a tale of suffering, patience, and ultimate liberation—transforming the myth into a universal narrative of hope and salvation.
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