Dec 2024. It was an early morning visit to Anjandri with Sridhar. I happened to notice a few paintings on the way up, and at the top as well.
This painting of Shabari offering fruits to Rama and Lakshman. Shabari was an ascetic known for her devotion towards Sri Rama. Her story is a part of Ramayana. During Rama-Lakshmana's search for Sita, they arrive at sage Matanga's ashram where Shabari resided. Shabari, who was awaiting Rama's darshan had collected berries which were offered to Rama. It is said that Shabari tasted a bit of every berry to make sure they were good enough to be offered to Rama. Such was her devotion and love for Rama.
The next painting is a circular infographic with three rings. At the core is a picture of Rama and Anjaneya hugging each other. Rings around the core have Devanagari text of terms associated to spiritual practices, names of four Vedas and lines praising our holy epic Ramayana.
Next is Vishnu Nama painted on a rock which is next to the path connecting the hill's base to summit. The painting seems to be a few years old since it has faded a bit. One has to admire the artistic appeal of depiction of the holy symbol.
Close by are two more lovely paintings- Hanuman as a youth and as a child. Whoever are the artists, their creations are marvelous.
Talking about paintings, one must see the painting of Rama-Lakshmana meeting Sugreeva at Chintamani.
.........
