A pitch-black night as if the sky lost the moon forever. It's normal for the wind and the sea to be wild on a new moon day which seemed nothing because a hurricane was blowing in her heart. As the sky was longing for the moon, she was emotionally trying to reconnect with that one voice, one warmth, and one soul-Shakthi. You dazzle like the traditional Tanjore painting thereby I’m amazed when you talk about Picasso & MF Hussain.
From that very moment, she could not resist thinking of him. Among the people who visit art exhibitions for the sake of entertainment, he had in-depth knowledge of various forms of paintings like Cubism, and Expressionism. Standing in front of the paintings, he would take sufficient time to observe what the artist wants to convey via the medium and would love to discuss the same with the artist. Whether the artist can sell his/her paintings or not, would have felt a sense of recognition and achievement after such conversations. Though not an artist, his understanding on the history of paintings and their impact on human society were mind-blowing. As days passed on, she started expecting him at every art exhibition.
Her curiosity rose when she observed that he actively interacts with all the artists who never bought a single painting. On a bright sunny day, an art expo was held at the city’s biggest hotel. The tall, young, well-dressed Shakthi was there, standing next to her painting on flamingos. May I know one thing? Before she could complete it, he looked straight into her eyes. His eyes were as pure as the morning dew. She took a moment to come back to her senses and spoke why don’t you buy a painting? His gentle smile indicated that it was a much-expected question. I am not mature enough Miss. Mayuri, she hurriedly replied. Yeah. Miss Mayuri.
He continued. Every time I come across a painting; I try to interpret not the art but myself. My emotions both positive and negative, are ego, stereotypes, values, ethics, and faith. Every art exhibition has made me realize that I must evolve as a better person. But no art to date has provided me the solution for how to better myself and on what grounds? Having said this, he bent his neck and whispered can you work on that Mayuri? At that moment, her face reflecting all shades of pink, the flamingos appeared as swans. So, what is your thought process on this painting? She asked. Observing the painting sometime, he replied. I strongly believe that a man’s nature /characteristics are based on his food just like the flamingo obtaining pink color from its food. The flamingo at the top right is extremely focused on its group, probably the leader. The flamingos away from the river bend not only denote their patience to quench the thirst but also their trust on the leader. Instead of a contrasting background, you have chosen sunset orange which is enhancing the mood of the art. Bold decision. She acknowledged his perception and replied unlike human beings, they choose the right one to lead but as a budding artist, my only focus is on anatomy. After a detailed discussion, the duo realized that most of their preferences, views, and understanding synchronize effortlessly.
He frequently visited her art studio and in course of time, the colors, style, and the central theme of her paintings reflected Shakthi’s ideologies. She would willingly talk about her goals & desires in life, and he would patiently listen with a smile as her gestures, and facial expressions would make him feel like a peacock is gracefully dancing in front of him. Mayuri-the peacock. On a busy morning, she gave a surprise visit to his home ironically, she was the one who got surprised. Wardrobes, shelves even the kitchen cabinets were full of books of various genres Fiction & Nonfiction, Biographies, art & architecture also religion. For a moment she thought she is in a library. With hands folded across his chest, he said Mayuri, coffee or chai? Books! She exclaimed. Suddenly both started laughing hysterically.
Sipping the hot coffee, she said. Shakthi, If a Ph.D., entrance exam demands such remarkable hard work, what would the exact course be? Hey, I have e-books for my entrance preparation. These are the books I have collected since childhood. They are gifts, prizes for exemplary performance also library books that I voluntarily so, there is a kutty story behind every book she cutely interrupted. She prepared the lunch and her love for Shakthi had deliciously spread throughout the food. Mayuri and Shakthi just lived every moment of the day. But the very next dawn was a shock for every Indian. A nationwide lockdown was imposed due to Covid-19. Neither the educational institutions nor the art expos were open. Like any other normal couple, they were continuously on video calls and chatting. As the lockdown extended from one phase to another Shakthi developed a sense of fear and insecurity. There was not any official information on his entrance exam schedule. Similar situation for Mayuri because no painting could be sold, thereby she was almost running out of money. Their video calls were lifeless as most of the time they were simply staring at each other.
As awareness about covid got popular with drawings and paintings, Mayuri used those opportunities to the maximum, but nothing turned out effective. However, due to lockdown more and more population were in search of discovering their passion and Shakthi had an idea to explore that space. The idea was very simple, yet unique. Online painting classes would be conducted twice in a day by Mayuri either at the end or beginning of the class, Shakthi would detail the importance/evolution of paintings and various forms of it. She loved the thought of jointly working way more than the idea itself. They both agreed on sourcing participants via social media. At the same time, she expressed her opinion on monetary aspects. Initially, no fee would be collected from participants but when the online workshops attain momentum, from then they would start collecting fees. Shakthi could not accept this idea as they both were severely cash trapped he didn’t want to do anything for charity. They took a break from this discussion for a few days. Meanwhile, he could not get landing on any other ideas as well.
Shakthi: Mayu, what if people participate only until the sessions are free of cost? Have you thought at least once?
Mayuri: Yes, but don’t you think this is the sole project we may take upon with almost nil investment? Thereby, it’s a calculated risk.
Shakthi: Do you really think this pricing is suitable for India?
Mayuri: Its online. The flamingo can cross borders. (She gave him a wink)
Shakthi: Be serious! M.Phil. stipend has been withheld for time being and I’m financially dependent on this project.
Mayuri: Hmmm. But what if, we charge them a fee right from the beginning and people don’t pay or the participants are less in number?
Shakthi: Hey, we would synergize naturally. Right from day 1, I’m sure we would grab the attention of the participants.
Mayuri: There you go. This is exactly why I’m determined on collecting the fee at the later part.
Shakthi: Well, how about other expenses?
Mayuri: Painting kits & brushes are in good condition. I would require canvas after few sessions. All sorted.
Shakthi: Let me prepare some flyers and share in social media. Any suggestions?
Mayuri: CHITRA KATHA
They kick-started their session as scheduled. Mayuri had some teething issues but when she got control of her teaching methodology there were lot of cross-questions from the participants, and many left the call during the session. As Shakthi’s portion was planned for the later part, there were only a handful of people left. Nevertheless, they got some positive comments as well. Overall, it was a mixed response. They realized that there is lot to coordinate and manage and the evening session was far better than the morning. After a few weeks of continuous sessions, they both sat together and analyzed the recordings. The best among them were posted on social media. Mayuri got valuable comments and feedback from her masters basis on which the duo evaluated the ways and means to redesign the session. Before every session, either of them used to check the list of participants registered. Mayuri’s eyes were filled in astonishment when she saw a name. Shakthi who was busy in arranging the room peeped into her phone screen and with overflowing fullness of joy, he hugged her tightly. Seems to be a foreigner, right? She slowly asked. He nodded. Shakthi was highly interactive in that session, and he didn’t miss addressing Mr. Smith who had joined from Australia. The rest of the participants also felt emotionally connected through art and both felt that it would be most appropriate to start charging from the upcoming month.
Smith had a separate conversation with Shakthi & Mayuri. He had a basic understanding of various Indian art forms like pattachitra, kalamkari and Madhubani and detailed his experience on Ajanta & Ellora's visit and informed them that he would love to join one such session. Mayuri who was comparing his posture, and facial expressions with a few of the Hollywood actors she had known suddenly felt bad. Tanjore's painting is why it’s not popular as any of our other art forms. She questioned herself. Shakthi realized what was going on in her mind and screen-shared the images of a few of Mayuri’s Tanjore paintings. While Shakthi grabbed the opportunity by expressing that they could arrange a separate session for him, his left hand was tightly grabbed by his lady love. Smith was overwhelmed and agreed readily. Every day, Smith had different questions and with loads of discussions, all three felt their knowledge is enriched. On one such fine morning, Smith told, May I show you something? Really don’t know if this is Indian art still wish to clarify. At first instance, it appeared Chinese, but it was a very elegant, mesmerizing, divine, tampered yet beautiful painting. It was not Ravi Varma's but had all his emotions. It was not Tagore’s but had all his expressions.
The painting captivated Shakthi like anything. He was speechless; his eyes were filled with tears. Smith could not understand what was happening. She informed him that it was a painting of Indian God Ardhanarishvara and was curious to know how he got that. What is Ardhanarishvara? He struggled to pronounce.
Shakthi: Intersection of man and woman
Smith: Why?
Shakthi: To denote equality
Smith: Equality of?
Shakthi: All genders
Smith: How?
Shakthi: Synthesis of masculine and feminine energies and their principles are inseparable.
Smith: But I’ve seen women are deprived of education and human rights and transgenders are illtreated in your country
Shakthi: Gargi and Maitreyi are two well-known women scholars of ancient India. There is a special temple for transgenders in south India called Koothandavar Temple
Smith: What it further denotes?
Shakthi: It’s all about duality. Father and mother, aloof and active, fearsome & gentle, constructive, and destructive.
Smith: Any specific names?
Shakthi: Shiva male & Sati female
Smith: Is this a deity?
Shakthi: Yes
Smith: I could see some animal-like figures
Shakthi: Shiva is also worshipped as Pasupathi lord of animals
Smith: What is there in his hand?
Shakthi: Damaru. Musical instruments symbolize the universe which is expanding and collapsing. Again, signifying duality.
Smith: What do you think the artist wants to convey?
Shakthi: Interpretation of oneself.
Mayuri had never seen him like this, and she was under the total assumption that Shakthi was influenced by some spirit. But as their conversation continued, she gradually started rejoicing the situation. It is not happiness, nor satisfaction but actualization. Smith spoke. I’m 50 yet I had never had such an interesting conversation with anybody. How old are you man? How have you acquired crystal clear knowledge of almost everything? I literally had goosebumps and now I could definitely realize why you cried uncontrollably. You both are made for each other, especially for art. Mayuri was on cloud nine. But the very next statement shattered her world altogether. Shakthi, why don’t you come over to Melbourne and do your research? I promise to take care of the monetary aspects. Common tell me, man. She was hiding her feelings and there was a weak fake smile on her lips. Shakthi suddenly grabbed her hand. Her intuition spoke, this is what a man, gem for a reason. Sure Smith, how about the paperwork? When the air traffic is open, I will be there. Her hands trembled and her body started to shiver. She withdrew her hand and ran into the street.
The sea was still roaring in darkness. She knelt, covered her face with her hands, and cried. She had never known this face of Shakthi. Was he referring to this to be the interpretation of himself? Smith is a big philanthropist, and it is a lifetime offer for Shakthi. She absolutely knew that he would console her stating distance doesn’t matter and soon he would be back. At once, something about Australia struck her mind. Though only one variety of flamingos resides in Australia, Flamingos are always regarded as Australian birds. The reason is tenuous.
