Krishna and Pradyumna rescue Arjuna

Here we see Krishna as a fearless warrior and savior of the disadvantaged, tasked with rescuing from the clutches of a demon the Mahabharata’s hero Arjuna, an archer skilled beyond compare. Demons are typically no obstacle for Krishna, but this one, Nikumbha, poses a problem. Nikumbha can multiply himself continually, making it difficult to defeat him. The odds appear to be stacked against Krishna.

The painting captures the chaos and confusion wrought by the demon and the challenge faced by Krishna (seen riding on Garuda, his part-bird, part-human mount) and his son (riding a chariot) to restore order. By carefully choreographing visual opposites and asymmetries in the composition, the artist conveys not only the action and drama, but also various moments in narrative time (the pink-robed Arjuna is shown nine times). Through it all, Krishna’s skill, strategy, and composure are highlighted. There is no doubt who will emerge in control of the situation.