While a reference to Devi Santoshi is practically non-existent in scripture, She is a widely revered deity in North India. She is particularly popular with women. Her name is derived from the Sanskrt word ‘santosh’, which translates to self-sufficiency. It is a value that is inculcated and cherished in women in Indian culture.
The Tanjore painting that you see on this page depicts the seated Santoshi Mata (mother) on a low, upholstered throne of gold, Her legs gathered in padmasana. She is clad in a saree of green silk, and one of Her four hands She raises in generous blessing. This is in keeping with the iconography of Her that did the rounds as pamphlet literature in the mid-1900s.
The glamour of Santoshi is expressed in the generous proportions of gold in this painting. The temple entrance along the upper edge of the canvas, the inlaid arc of the backrest, and the crown and parasol as well as the shringar on Her person. The gracious colour of gold is complemented by the engraved teakwood frame.
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