Reverence, a solo art exhibition by Indian artist Lalit K Jain was held in Gulshan on November 29. US Ambassador Dan W Mozena and Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka Pankaj Saran attended the exhibition. Thirty of his artworks were on display.
Born in 1933 in Rajasthan, India, Lalit discovered his true talent very early. After completing his primary education from Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, he started his career from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). He spent most of his time in the popular sites of Harappa, Punjab, where he was involved in archaeological survey during daytime, and at night he used to paint. Some of his artworks are placed at the National Museum at New Delhi.
Residing in Delhi, Lalit sought inspiration from his travelogue in temples such as the Mathura, Khajuraho and Ajanta caves. Noticeably, Buddhist Monasteries play a dominant role in his canvas. The artist also expressed himself through miniature paintings.
A picture that shows a Rishi living in a jungle, and a woman holding a lamp who leaves darkness behind in her search for enlightenment, points out the spiritual side to his paintings.
The artist’s series of figurative paintings: Women Era, depicting women in sensual poses, is detailed and enthralling. He states: “God has created woman as the most beautiful creature in the earth.”
Another artwork depicts a banyan tree and the spiritual teacher, Gautama Buddha being enlightened underneath it. The artwork Kumbh shows wood from the peepal (Banyan) tree being used to light a sacred fire through which the Gods passed knowledge to humanity.
His artwork Mother, is a tribute to his children and his late wife.
About the reception of his work, Lalit said: “I would like to leave the interpretation of my artworks to the viewers – it is dependent on the on-looker’s perception.”