About the Artwork +
This divine Kalighat painting by Anwar Chitrakar depicts one of the most iconic and dramatic scenes in Hindu mythology, Goddess Kali stepping upon the chest of her husband, Lord Shiva. The painting captures the exact moment Kali’s destructive rampage is halted. Realizing she has stepped upon her divine consort in her battle frenzy, she bites her tongue in sudden shame and realization, restoring balance to the universe.
Kalighat Painting is a traditional folk art form from Kolkata, West Bengal, known for its bold brushstrokes, expressive figures, and minimalistic compositions. It is characterized by strong flowing outlines, vibrant colours and themes ranging from Hindu mythology to social satire and scenes of everyday urban life.
At the heart of the composition is Kali Maa, rendered in a deep, striking blue. Her face features the classic Kalighat profile, large, almond eyes, a prominent third eye and her characteristic protruding tongue. A brilliant yellow halo edged with red flames radiates behind her head. She is depicted with four arms. In her upper right hand she wields a stylized, white curved sword (khadga), while her lower hand extends downward.
Her upper left hand is raised in Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness), and her lower hand grips a severed head by the hair. She is heavily adorned with white jewelry including intricate necklaces, armbands and anklets. Reinforcing her fierce iconography, she wears a long garland of yellow severed heads (Mundamala) and a skirt crafted from severed arms.
The narrative is firmly anchored at the base of the canvas by the recumbent figure of Lord Shiva. Acting as the ultimate pacifying force, he lies peacefully on his back, supporting his head with one hand. His skin is painted a pale blue, providing a gentle contrast to Kali's intensity. He features a black mustache, a visible third eye, and a subtle crescent moon tucked into his ascetics' hair. He wears a vibrant tiger-skin lower garment, along with the rudrakshamala. Kali’s right foot rests squarely on his chest, while her left foot presses into his lower leg.
Adding a layer to the cremation ground (smashan) setting is a small, stylized dog seated on the lower right. The artwork utilizes a muted, parchment-like beige background that highlights the central figures. Enclosing this cosmic drama is a heavy, scalloped red curtain with painted folds and golden fringed drapes on the sides. This architectural, stage-like border is a hallmark of Kalighat compositions, presenting the divine narrative as a grand, theatrical spectacle for the devotee's contemplation.
Authentication and Certification +
Each of our artworks are hand painted by master artists across India. We provide a digital authentication
certificate with this artwork signed by the artist which will be sent over email after 3-4 days of delivery of the
artwork.
View Sample Here
Sizes, Framing and Customisation +
The sizes mentioned are excluding the borders of the artwork. Frames shown are for visual representation only and are not included with the artwork.
Customisation
Most artworks can be customised in terms of colours, size and elements to fit your requirements.
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Framing Services
No, we currently sell artworks unframed (unless explicitly mentioned otherwise) and do not provide framing services.
Shipping and Taxes +
We ship worldwide. All artworks are handmade and couriered securely in transit safe packaging sutaible for the artwork.
Domestic Orders
All prices are inclusive of GST and applicable Indian taxes.
- We offer free shipping on orders above ₹1999 for all artworks, except Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri.
- A flat shipping rate of ₹499 applies to orders below ₹1999.
Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri
Shipping is charged on a per-kilogram basis, due to the delicate and bulky nature of these items.
International Orders
- A flat shipping charge of ₹4,000 applies to international artwork orders.
- Customs duties, taxes, or import charges in the buyer’s country are not included and must be borne by the buyer.
- Shipping rates for Lippan, Terracotta and Thikri artworks will be calculated based on weight.
Additonal Shipping Charges
Extra charges may be applicable for both domestic and international deliveries in the following cases:
- If the article requires additional packaging (such as a wooden crate) to ensure safe shipping due to its delicate nature.
- Custom-framed artworks.
- Artworks where shorter side exceeds 36 inches or Decor items with any side over 35 inches.
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Delivery Timelines and Returns +
Returns and Replacements
We offer replacements or repairs if your artwork arrives damaged or has a quality issue. As each artwork is handcrafted, we do not accept returns or refunds for orders received in the expected condition.
Delivery Timeline
This artwork will be Made to Order and will take
3 weeks
to be made and shipped.
Once your order is placed, our team stays in constant communication with the artist to track the progress and
ensure the quality of your order. You will receive regular updates from us throughout this process.
All MeMeraki artworks are hand-painted. In rare occasions, artist may face delays due to weather, health, prior commitments or force majeure. Our team will reach out to you with revised timelines in case of such delays. We appreciate your understanding and patience in such situations.
Colour Disclaimer+
All artworks on the website are hand painted from scratch by our master artists. This makes every artwork absolutely unique and the actual colour and overall artwork may vary slightly from the artwork image posted here.