№ MMXXVI

RACHNA · A LIVING ARCHIVE

Rachna by M.

Loading the archive

MM · XXVI

Canvas
Determination of the Sparrow and Garuda
Indian School · 18–20c.

Painting

Determination of the Sparrow and Garuda

Indian School · 18–20c.

Description

Commissioned for educational and spiritual publications within the International Society for Krishna Consciousness movement to illustrate teachings on pure devotion.

Historical context

This painting portrays a profound spiritual allegory from traditional Vaishnava teachings, where a tiny sparrow attempts to drain the vast ocean after the waves carry away her eggs. Despite her infinitesimal size, her unwavering determination catches the attention of Garuda, the mighty divine eagle and mount of Lord Vishnu. Garuda, moved by her steadfast tenacity, steps in to assist her, symbolizing that supreme spiritual success in bhakti is achieved not through physical prowess, but through a resolute and unyielding will.

Featured in

Poems paired with this painting

Adjacent works

From the same room.