My Roots.

     As a helicopter pilot I keep roaming all over the country. Life is a continuous journey. One settles down where ever ones job takes. But there are times when one longs to go back to ones roots. I am from a small village of northern India, a place I have rarely visited. Recently I visited this village and got a chance to see the place where my father and grandfather were born and brought up. Saw the alleys where they played as children. Really nostalgic, got emotional. This is a painting of the alley that leads to our ancestral house. Painted it from a photograph I had clicked.

The Saga Continues

     It really makes you feel good when your friends miss you. Thanks all of you who missed me and remembered me.
     To continue the story I have landed up from the frying pan into the deep freeze! From Africa I have come back to a region of India called Laddakh. The average altitude varies between 10,000 feet to 18,000 feet. And during this season the temperatures vary from -10 to -55 degrees Celsius ! Adjusting to this requires some effort. On top of this I tried to paint plein air! My hands went numb, brushes kept aside would freeze, the paints were misbehaving... finally I had to rush inside to complete this work. Anyway, its good to be back!

Har Ki Paudi

     In the foot hills of the Himalayas on the banks of the river Yamuna is the small temple town of Haridwar. Literally translated this means the Gateway to God. Every evening, at this holy spot called 'Har ki Paudi', thousands of devotees gather for the evening prayers. Many take the holy dip in the waters which are chilling in the winters. It is a festive atmosphere full of unabated revelry. There is something of interest for every one, be it young or old. Come join the fun through this watercolor.
     And yes, in another two days I will be leaving Africa for home : India. Will take some time to settle down. Lets see if I can manage something in between. Have a nice weekend. See you soon.

Watch Out !

     This is another street scene from one of the by lanes of Old Delhi. Essentially these lanes are more than 300 years old, dating from the Mughal era. They were designed catering for mostly pedestrians or an odd horse rider. The old structures have either been re-re-repaired or have been replaced by ugly modern structures. The population of the city has grown manifold. Some of the best and cheapest markets of the city are located here, attracting hordes of shoppers looking for bargains. You are always jostling for space.  You actually have to watch every step. But do not get scared. It is a shopaholic's paradise. Capturing the scene in watercolors was fun. Hope you like it.

YOO HOOOOO!

     This watercolor should bring a smile on the face of every Mumbaikar (As the residents of Mumbai or erstwhile Bombay call themselves). High tide coupled with strong winds make large waves crash on the pavements of Marine Drive. Its freak out time for children. Sporting adults are not an exception. The spirits are not dampened by the large amount of sand that these waves carry with them. This is what I call the 'Spirit of Mumbai'. If you happen to visit Mumbai and get a chance, make sure you join in the fun.
     The reference picture was borrowed from the net.

Stop, Look, Go

     After a one year sojourn in Africa I am heading back home to India shortly. The one thing, the thought of which is giving me jitters is the traffic there. In Congo, either the roads were non existent, or if they did exist, were mostly empty. So either you didn't drive or if you did, it was mostly peaceful. But Indian traffic is quite notorious. A peace loving person can really get nightmares! But for a person who loves to see things around, and is not in a hurry, it can actually be quite interesting. The number of different types of transport is itself phenomenal. From bullock carts, cycle rickshaws, auto rickshaws to the most modern cars and pedestrians, they all peacefully co-exist. It is chaotic, but it moves. Fortunately the accident rate is much lower than most countries.
     This is a watercolor rendition of a road scene in India. If you really want to enjoy this, do visit us and see it for yourself.

Digital vs Manual

     In Hinduism, 'Sadhu' is a term for a mystic or a wandering monk. They are ones who have left behind  materialism and live in forests or temples all over India and Nepal. They are still widely respected for their holiness and also at times feared for their curses. They wear saffron clothes and at times nothing but their own locks of unruly hair! Smoking hash and opium is very common among them. It is considered a means to forget the world and attain nirvana! If you want to know more about them click HERE.
     I found a picture of a sadhu in total bliss. Painted it first in watercolor and pastels. This was a quick sketch but some how got over worked. Could not get the fluidity of water color. Was not entirely happy with it. Decided to give it a try digitally also. Both are there in front of you. What do you think?