Miniatures are intricate, colorful illuminations or paintings, small in size, executed meticulously with delicate brushwork. The history of Indian Miniature Paintings can be traced to the 6-7th century AD. Miniature Paintings have evolved over centuries carrying the influence of other cultures. The miniature artists gave self-expression on paper, ivory panels, wooden tablets, leather, marble, cloth and walls. Indian artists employed multiple perspectives unlike their European counterparts in their paintings. The idea was to convey reality that existed beyond specific vantage point.

The Kangra Miniatures of the Pahari School made a mark in the 18th century. Though influenced by the Mughals, the Kangra School retained its distinctiveness. The paintings were naturalistic and employed cool, fresh colors. The colors were extracted from minerals, vegetables and possessed enamel-like luster. Verdant greenery of the landscape, brooks, springs were the recurrent images on the miniatures. Texts of the Gita Govinda, Bhiari's Satsai, and the Baramasa of Keshavdas provided endless themes to the painters. Krishna and Radha as eternal lovers were portrayed rejoicing the moments of love. The Kangra miniatures are also noted for portraying the famine charm with a natural grace. The paintings based on Ragmalas (musical modes) also found patronage in Kangra.

About the painting

The painting personifies Raga Saranga, one of the eight sons of Sri Raga. A young lady is churning milk and the churning stick is tied to the wall of a pavilion. The lotus-faced lady is in her best finery and jewelry. A pearl necklace around her neck and other ornaments adorning her ears, nose and forehead make her look lovely. She has tasted the sweetness of her lover’s kisses and seeks entrance to the adjoining room. Her lover holding a cup to receive the buttermilk is also shown. In the backdrop, a woman is watering a cow. An ambience of summer season is vividly depicted with blazing sun dotting the sky.