Mathura, Oct 24 (UNI) Traditional Sanjhi artist Rasik Vallabh Nagarch showcased the divine Maha Raas of Shri Radha and Shri Krishna at the Braj Raj Mahotsav, highlighting the cultural and devotional heritage of Braj. Nagarch, a Vrindavan-based artist, is working to preserve the centuries-old art form by training children and young people in its intricate techniques.
Organised by the Uttar Pradesh government, the festival provided a platform for Nagarch to present Sanjhi art, which depicts the divine pastimes of Radha and Krishna through intricate designs and the use of colours. Nagarch belongs to the eighth generation of the lineage of Saint Hit Parmanand Ji Maharaj. He views Sanjhi not merely as an art form but as an expression of devotion and Braj's spiritual traditions.
Sanjhi is practised through different techniques, including compositions on water, underwater arrangements and designs made using dry colours. The art form requires precision, patience and detailed craftsmanship. During Pitru Paksha, from Ekadashi to Amavasya, Nagarch creates Sanjhi compositions at Shri Priya Vallabh Lal Ji Kunj in Vrindavan, continuing a tradition closely associated with the region's devotional culture. He maintains that Sanjhi should not be equated with rangoli, as the art form has its own distinct techniques and cultural significance, rooted in Braj's folk traditions and spiritual heritage.
As secretary of the Hit Utsav Charitable Trust in Vrindavan, Nagarch is also working to promote the art form and train younger practitioners. He believes that training opportunities and greater institutional support are essential to ensure the continuity of the tradition. Artists and cultural practitioners have stressed the need for wider recognition, dedicated training programmes and support from educational and cultural institutions to preserve traditional art forms. Nagarch's efforts aim to ensure that Sanjhi, an integral part of Braj's cultural heritage, continues to be practised and passed on to future generations.
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