Raja Ravi Varma's 177th anniversary: 5 hidden secrets in his paintings that will change how you see them

Raja Ravi Varma's paintings are nothing short of iconic, but if you dig a little deeper, you'll find a treasure trove of hidden meanings, techniques, and influences that even the most passionate art enthusiasts might not fully grasp.

As we celebrate his birthday,we look at five fascinating secrets about Raja Ravi Varma’s artworks, showcasing how his artistic brilliance not only transformed Indian art but also reshaped our understanding of mythology, emotion, and tradition in visual storytelling.

1. The hidden symbolism in his depictions of gods and goddesses

Many of Raja Ravi Varma's divine figures are rich with subtle symbols that hint at their deeper significance. Take his portrayal of Lakshmi, for instance; she often appears with a lotus or a pot of gold, symbols of prosperity. However, it’s the way Varma plays with light and colour to emphasise these elements that adds layers of meaning, going far beyond the surface.

2. How his use of western techniques changed Indian art forever

Raja Ravi Varma didn’t merely adopt European realism; he made it his own. He skillfully blended Western oil painting techniques with traditional Indian iconography in a groundbreaking way. This fusion resulted in artworks that were not only culturally rich but also strikingly lifelike, leaving a lasting impact on generations of artists.

3. The emotional depth in mythological narratives

While many Indian artists portrayed mythological figures in static, divine poses, Ravi Varma infused them with genuine emotion. His Shakuntala isn’t just a beautiful woman frozen in time; she’s caught in a whirlwind of feelings, making her story resonate deeply with contemporary viewers.

4. Why his paintings tell stories beyond their frames

Ravi Varma was a true master of storytelling, and his paintings do more than just depict a scene—they draw the viewer into a larger narrative. His portrayal of Sita transcends her physical beauty, highlighting her quiet strength and resilience, which adds a narrative depth that encourages reflection on her journey.

5. The technological influence: How Raja Ravi Varma inspired modern mass media

One of the most fascinating aspects of Raja Ravi Varma’s legacy is how his impact reached far beyond the confines of galleries and into the realm of mass media. His paintings were turned into lithographs, making them some of the earliest examples of mass-market art in India. These reproductions circulated widely, solidifying his influence not only among artists but also within popular culture.