Read the story of a visionary artist who transformed her canvas into Radhika Merchant’s Lehenga.
In between the roads of tradition and modernity, there exists an artist who has managed to bring about a blend of both through her work. This artist’s work transcends the boundaries of canvas and galleries. Known for her rich, mythological depictions and deep cultural roots, her art captures the spirit of Indian womanhood and mythology. With countless exhibitions and awards under her belt, she has become a veteran in the world of national and international art.
This remarkable artist is a painter and sculptor known for her intricate representations of Indian mythology and womanhood. Her work, a fusion of tradition and personal expression, brings to life the goddesses and mythological figures she grew up admiring. Raised in Kolkata, where she was steeped in the vibrant cultural heritage of Durga Puja, this artist’s work is a reflection of her deep admiration for the powerful female figures worshiped in Bengal, such as Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Kali. Her artistic journey is not just about creating visual spectacles; it is about telling stories of strength, endurance, and divine feminine energy.
If you are still wondering who are we talking about, this remarkable artist is none other than Jayasri Burman. The 64-year-old artist’s work is deeply rooted in mythology, with a particular focus on women’s roles in these ancient stories. From the goddess Durga to Draupadi from the Mahabharata, Jayasri’s subjects represent the powerful and hidden energy that every woman holds. Her show on Draupadi was a particularly important milestone in her career. After three years of conceptualising, she presented Draupadi not as a victim but as a powerful amalgamation of the goddesses Maha Lakshmi, Maha Kali, and Maha Saraswati. For Jayasri, every woman has an unseen strength that drives her through life’s struggles, and she strives to capture that energy in her art.
Her life and Family Influence
Jayasri’s passion for art was nurtured by her father from an early age. As a child, she would listen to him recite Tagore’s poetry every Sunday, and it was during these sessions that her imagination took flight. Although she started by writing poetry, her creative instincts led her towards painting. Supported by her family, she studied art at Kala Bhavan in Santiniketan, where she honed her unique style. Her education there was transformative, teaching her to blend imagination with technique, a skill that would later define her artistic identity.
One of her earliest lessons at Kala Bhavan was to look beyond the obvious. Her teacher asked her to observe a flower vase and then tell a story about it. This simple yet profound exercise taught her that art is, at its core, a form of storytelling—a concept that would resonate throughout her career.
When Jayasri Turned a Stunning Piece of Painting in Lehenga
A surprising turn of events happened for Jayasri turning her painting into a lehenga. She got a surprise call from some of the most influential names in the fashion industry: Abu Jani, Sandeep Khosla, and Rhea Kapoor. Their request? To transform her renowned artistic canvas into a one-of-a-kind lehenga for none other than Radhika Merchant. The lehenga was meant to be more than just fabric—it was to be a masterpiece of art couture. Initially reluctant due to the limited time frame before the wedding, the artist agreed after Radhika’s heartfelt request, declaring, “If you wear my canvas as a piece of art, I will do it.” The result was a stunning, hand-painted lehenga that mesmerised the nation. The vibrant and intricate creation, worn by Radhika Merchant at her Subh Aashirwad ceremony, soon became the talk of the
town.
Jayasri’s vision behind the garment exudes a celebration of Anant and Radhika’s union through deeply meaningful imagery. The depiction “The human figures representing the happy couple radiate a celestial aura that honours the divinity in their humanity. The fauna depicts Anant’s fondness for animals, particularly elephants which are considered auspicious and beautiful.”
Legacy and Artistic Impact
Jayasri Burman’s journey from painting on canvases to creating wearable art for some of India’s most influential families is a testament to her versatility and vision. Her work continues to inspire not only for its aesthetic beauty but for the deep cultural and mythological stories it tells. Jayasri’s belief in the strength and power of women is evident in every piece she creates, making her a pivotal figure in both the art world and the larger cultural narrative of India.