The Dasa Mahavidya, or Ten Wisdom Goddesses are prominent figures in Hinduism, especially within Tantric traditions, representing diverse aspects of the Divine Feminine and encompassing ultimate wisdom. They are Kali, Tara, Tirupara Sundari, Bhuvaneshvari, Bhairavi, Chhinamasta, Dhumavati, Bagalamukhi, Matangi and Kamala. These goddesses are believed to be manifestations of Goddess Parvati and are invoked for spiritual growth, empowerment, and the realization of the Supreme through practices like meditation, mantra chanting and devotional acts.
The exhibition presents works by Krishnanand Jha, who came from a family of tantric priests, and Santosh Kumar Das who completed a rendering of the Dasa Mahavidya, taking two years.
“In the Mithila tradition, the goddess Shakti—cosmic feminine force—is both the center and the axis of the world. In the works of Krishnanand Jha, she moves through space with pointed grace: gestures and glances guiding the viewer’s eye in unfolding sequences, like a ritual procession. In Santosh Kumar Das’s paintings, she holds her ground in composed force: symmetrical, frontal, and still, radiating a steady power akin to the meditative pull of a yantra. Both employ the red–black–white triad of tantric symbolism, precise patterning, and sacred geometry to make the divine present on paper. In motion and in stillness, their goddesses remain unshaken—commanding, eternal, complete,” said Dr. Katie Lazarowicz.
“In the vibrant world of Madhubani art, where women have traditionally held the brush and defined the aesthetic vocabulary for centuries, the Sarmaya collection includes two significant departures from this norm. Santosh Kumar Das and the late Krishnanand Jha represent fascinating masculine interventions in a decidedly feminine art form, each bringing unique perspectives that have enriched and expanded the boundaries of this ancient tradition from Bihar,” said Paul Abraham, Founder, Sarmaya Arts Foundation. “To showcase the works of these two master artists together is truly special. I have been talking about this exhibition to Santosh Kumar Das for nearly a decade now. I am looking forward to people seeing Santosh Kumar Das’ rendering of the Dasa Mahavidya, which has taken him two years to complete,” said Anubhav Nath, director of Ojas Art.
