It is only to be immersed in the motherly love of Yashoda, that Sri Krishna, the great Vishnu incarnate, indulged in childish mischief. One of his favorite activities was stealing Makkhan (butter), which his mother painstakingly obtained after churning cow’s milk. This naughty act of his earned Krishna the title of Makhan-Chor or butter-thief. Even today, for the devotees who love the dark-skinned lord, He remains the butter thief, relishing in the sweetness of the fresh butter and the devoted affection of his followers simultaneously.
In this Pattachitra from Orissa, painted by Rabi Behra, we see a beautiful folk representation of Krishna as Makhan Chor. Against a dark backdrop of black, decorated by floral patterns, the childish innocence of Krishna blossoms exquisitely. He has a light-blue skin tone, adorned with ethnic jewelry and decorations drawn using white paint. Little Krishna’s attire includes a dotting green dhoti (lower body garment) and a pink scarf that brushes against the floor as he crawls to reach the pot containing his favorite butter. With one hand he holds the pot, while the other one is thrust inside it to get a handful of butter. As he does this, some of the butter splashes out, as is outlined by the white droplets trickling down the pot’s mouth. Colorful curtains adorn the upper portion of the painting, which is outlined with beautiful floral patterns. The artist has drawn a magnificence halo around the visage of Krishna, it is a cue- even when involved in his innocent Lila (plays), the Makhan Chor Krishna, is the great preserver of the universe himself.
For privacy concerns, please view our Privacy Policy
Send as free online greeting card
Email a Friend
Manage Wishlist