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; popular religious art

Discus, conch shell, forehead mark, and long garland are suggestive of Hindu god, Vishnu. His third hand raised in blessing would indicate deity role as well as worshippers, their offerings, and lotus flowers at his feet.

Rectangular shaped calendar print depicting a central image of Vishnu with blue skin, four arms and long black hair. He is wearing a yellow dhoti and a pink wrap around his shoulders. He is adorned with gold and stoned jewelry on his wrists, neck, waist and head along with a white, pink and green garland. Vishnu is holding a discus and conch shell; third hand raised in blessing with light rays shining from it. Two worshippers standing on left with hands in prayer position. Two worshippers on right holding offerings, one sitting cross-legged and one standing. Between the worshippers is a bowl of fruit and flowers with three lamps. Composition framed by pillar on either side, supporting an arch.