Painting
Damayanti choosing her husband in her Svayamvara
Indian School · 18–20c.
Description
Originally created as an illustration for Indian myths and legends, published in London, later preserved in digital archives such as Wikimedia Commons.
Historical context
This exquisite illustration captures a tender and momentous turning point from the ancient epic Mahabharata, where the virtuous princess Damayanti prepares to place the garland of choice around Nala, her beloved. Surrounded by celestial suitors who assumed human form to win her hand, Damayanti stands with poised grace, her heart unwavering in its devotion. Warwick Goble infuses the classic Indian narrative with the delicate lyricism of early twentieth century British book illustration, bridging cultural sensibilities with profound reverence for eternal love and divine destiny.
Featured in
Poems paired with this painting
- संकोच-भार को सह न सकाBhagwati Charan VermaRead →
- चाँद गोरी के घरPiyush MishraRead →
- कल चौंदहवीं की रात थी शब भर रहा चर्चा तिराIbn-e-InshaRead →
- तुम मुझको उद्दीपन दे दो गीतों का उपवन दे दूँगाAmitabh Tripathi ‘Amit’Read →
- तुम अगर मुझको न चाहो तो कोई बात नहींSahir LudhianviRead →
- खुले तुम्हारे लिए हृदय के द्वारTrilochanRead →
- वो महकती पलकों की ओटBashir BadrRead →
Adjacent works
