The Tantric in Kalighat by Bapi Chitrakar

This captivating Kalighat painting by Bapi Chitrakar vividly brings to life the esoteric world of Tantrism, a mystical spiritual tradition within Hinduism often shrouded in secrecy and awe. The composition centers around a commanding Tantric practitioner, seated cross-legged on a patterned cushion, exuding authority and mysticism. Clad in an olive green robe adorned with delicate floral motifs and a rich red shawl, the Tantric also wears a traditional turban and strings of sacred beads around his neck, signifying his elevated spiritual status. His hands are dramatically raised in powerful mudras (ritualistic gestures), one of them performing an incantation, suggesting an act of transformation. Surrounding him are essential paraphernalia of Tantric rituals: a bone, a human skull symbolizing mortality and the conquest of death, and a smear of ash (bhasm), traditionally used by Tantrics to mark their bodies. The scene takes a mystical turn with the presence of a goat-headed human figure — its face retaining human features while the body is that of a goat, adorned with jewelry, highlighting the Tantric’s alleged power to transmute forms through occult practices. Beside the Tantric stands a goat, another symbolic element often associated with rural Bengal and ritual purity. Hovering at the top right corner is a distinctive black medallion, marked with a cross-like symbol, identifying the practitioner’s allegiance to Tantric sects and their arcane knowledge. Through this bold, satirical yet reverent portrayal, Bapi Chitrakar preserves the Kalighat tradition’s legacy as an art form deeply rooted in societal observation and the depiction of the extraordinary within the everyday.

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Frames shown are for visual representation only and are not included with the artwork. We offer framing services on demand at additional framing and shipping costs.

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