Calendar

Indian popular religious prints have been published for nearly a century, first by German presses, later by Indian ones. The prints may take the form of calendars, posters, or simply images. The style of the representations is European. In the beginning they were Hindu images, but are now acquiring elements both of folk art and a romantic secularism. It is a living art currently influenced by the movie industry and non-Hindu religions. The images are a vehicle for advertising and are also used for religious purposes.

calendar art; political art

M.G. Ramachandran is a popular cinema and political figure. He became a member of the D.M.K. Party in 1967. In 1971, he formed the A.I.C.E.M.K. which was in power until 1977. He is often represented wearing dark glasses, a white hat, modern clothing, and adorned with flowers. The representation of elephants developed out of fear and are expected to save the devotees from the depredation of the beast and ultimately from all trouble. Water is considered the cross-point linking the heaven and earth.

Rectangular calendar print depicting a male figure, M.G. Ramachandran, suited in dark pants and jacket with light yellow shirt and a red tie, standing on stylized water. Around his neck is a large, pink floral wreath. Arms bent at elbows with hand on left holding a yellow and pink floral bouquet. He is wearing dark glasses and a white brimless white hat. Above his head the hands of an unseen figure are pouring flowers over him. Two small winged figures are offering wreaths at left and right of his head. Behind him are two bathing pink elephants with flags in their trunks. The water is spotted with lotus' and pads. Below the image is the following text: 'Shri Sangu Company, Cinema, Songs and Books, Stories, Calendars Business; 150 Nadar Rd., Madurai 1, Merchandize at a good price we have'. Thin metal edge along the top and bottom.