Year 1898

About the Artwork

The story of Draupadi and the Enchantress Simhika unfolds from the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. In this tale, Simhika, a demoness, seeks vengeance upon Draupadi for the death of her husband, Shardula, at the hands of Arjuna. Simhika cunningly transforms into an alluring woman, luring Draupadi into the forest under the guise of showing a temple. The encounter takes a perilous turn as Simhika reveals her true intentions. However, Draupadi's cries for help draw Sahadeva, the youngest of the Pandavas, who comes to her rescue and incapacitates the demoness. Raja Ravi Varma, known for his masterful integration of European realism with Indian subjects, captures the intense drama of this story in his painting, showcasing not just artistic skill but a deep understanding of cultural narratives.

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Did You Know

Raja Ravi Varma is celebrated for his pioneering style that harmonized traditional Indian subjects with European techniques, making his work accessible yet rooted deeply in cultural narratives.
In the epic Mahabharata, Draupadi is often celebrated for her unwavering strength and resilience amid adversity, making her a revered figure in Indian literature.
The use of chromolithograph prints in Varma’s era allowed for widespread dissemination of his art, democratizing access and influencing popular visual culture significantly.

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