Temple hanging of the Vaishnava sect depicting festival of Sharad Purnima or autumn full moon

The pichhavais or ritual temple hangings of the Vallabacharya sect are beautifully painted cotton cloths used as backdrops behind the main idol of Krishna in the inner shrine of the temple. This particular painting is used for the festival or Sharad Purnima or autumn full moon.

Shri Nathji, the local form of Krishna, stands on a throne of lotuses. The forested landscape of Brindavan, the groves where Krishna played as a child, is indicated by the plantain leaves and mango trees. Three Gopis, or cowherdesses, stand on each side with raised arms as of dancing for theior beloved Krishna.

The lower panels depict scenes of govardhan puja (cow-nourisher-worship) and danlila or Krishna demanding butter as toll, and a row of white cows looking up towards the main deity. Around the central portion are 24 small panels depicting various scenes from Krishna's life.