AIRAVAS
श्रीधरार्चितपादपद्मयुगः संस्थितो भूत्वा समुद्रमथने रतिप्रदो वसन्। एरावणः प्रियसखो मदीय भामिनी कृत्वा च भूरिपालवंशविमर्दनं ते॥"
"శ్రీధరార్చితపాదపద్మయుగః సంస్థితో భూత్వా సముద్రమథనే రతిప్రదో వసన్। ఏరావణః ప్రియసఖో మదీయ భామినీ కృత్వా చ భూరిపాలవంశవిమర్దనం తే॥"
Adorned with the lotus-like feet worshipped by Lord Vishnu (Shridhara). Having become the bestower of desires during the churning of the ocean. Airavat, dear companion of mine (Lord Indra), and Uchchaihshravas.
The Figures:
Airavat Known as the celestial white elephant, is considered the mount of Lord Indra, the king of gods. Symbolically, it represents strength, wisdom, and auspiciousness. Airavat is adorned with colossal ornaments, signifying his divine nature and association with the heavens.
Uchchaihshravas on the other side is the artistic representation of divine seven-headed horse. It is believed to be the king of horses, symbolizing incredible speed and prowess. It is also associated with wealth and prosperity, and its appearance signifies the fulfilment of noble desires.
About the Art: AIRAVAS (AIRAVAT + UCHCHAISHRAVAS)
Both these characters emerged during the churning of the ocean Samudra Manthan in Hindu mythology. Fittingly, the divine creatures are showcased amidst the rich flora and fauna of Telangana. Each element, from the vibrant leaves to the serene rivers, tells stories of the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. This blending of mythological figures with earthly landscapes symbolizes the inseparable connection between the divine and the earthly realms, reflecting a harmonious balance cherished in Indian traditions. At Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Hyderabad, amidst the hum of modernity, stand eighteen Tholu lamps, each a beacon of regions’ soul. Crafted meticulously, they whispered tales of artisans who breathe life into colors, weaving threads of tradition into every stroke, their glow reminiscent of ancient rites, loom the majestic figures of Airavat and Uchchaihsravas. These divine beings, borne from myth and revered across lands, stand as sentinels of grace and power. The artwork soaring Airavat and Uchchaihshravas, painted in the timeless Tholu style. The celestial forms danced upon the leather, bringing myth and legend to life. With majestic grace, they overlooked the scene, guardians of a narrative woven into the fabric of Deccan heritage. The Tholu lamps, with their intricate designs and vibrant hues, traced their origins to the skilled hands of Telangana’s artisans. This traditional craft, known for its intricate leather appliqué work, has adorned homes and temples for centuries, carrying with it he stories of devotion and artistic mastery. Similarly, Tholu painting, celebrated for its intricate hand-drawn motifs and natural dyes, has been a cherished art form in Telangana, depicting mythological narratives and cultural symbols with unparalleled beauty and finesse. In the vibrant hues of Tholu art, these mythical beings would be portrayed with intricate patterns and vivid colors, capturing their majestic forms and spiritual significance. The artwork not only showcases their physical attributes but also brings alive the stories and symbolism associated with them, offering travellers a glimpse into the rich mythological tapestry of Telangana.
As travellers pause before this tableau, they are invited to connect with the deeper layers of history and spirituality embedded within the artwork. It serves as a testament, a reminder that amidst the rush of travel and the swift passage of time, there are anchors to hold onto, stories to cherish, and a legacy that illuminates the path ahead. It is a profound reminder of the enduring legacy of Telangana—a legacy that continues to inspire and enrich the present moment amidst the fast-paced environment of RGIA. In its embrace, this space becomes a sanctuary of culture and history, where the essence of Telangana's myths and legends beckon travellers to pause and connect with the enduring spirit that defines this ancient land.
Artist : Anjannappa (tholu artisan)
Curated by : MeMeraki
Artform style : Tholu