Observe the image and answer the following question.
The painting in the image, by Nuruddin of Bikaner, illustrates the Rasikapriya. In its story, who takes on the role of a messenger and pacifier between Krishna and Radha?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Radha’s sakhi
Option (1) A Gopi — Incorrect. Krishna is enjoying himself in the company of a Gopi at her dwelling. This rendezvous leaves Radha grieving; the Gopi carries no message between them.
Option (2) Bani Thani — Incorrect. Bani Thani was the young singer loved by Sawant Singh of Kishangarh. Kishangarh paintings show her as Radha; she is not a figure in this Rasikapriya story.
Option (3) Nagari Das — Incorrect. Nagari Das was the pen name of Sawant Singh, who wrote devotional poetry on Krishna and Radha. He is not a figure in this Rasikapriya story.
Option (4) Radha’s sakhi — Correct. Radha’s friend learns of the fall out and takes on the role of a messenger and pacifier. She tells Krishna of Radha’s misery.
NCERT (2026-27):
“Krishna Swinging and Radha in Sad Mood …Appearing in the upper section of the painting, Krishna seated on a swing seems to be enjoying himself in the company of a Gopi at her dwelling. On learning about his rendezvous a jilted Radha, stricken with grief, disappears into the countryside and finds herself alone under a tree. Guilt-ridden Krishna, on learning of Radha’s sorrow, follows her but there is no truce happening. Meanwhile, Radha’s sakhi (friend) gets to know of the fall out and takes on the role of a messenger and pacifier. She comes to Krishna and tells him of the misery and plight of Radha, and implores him to appease her.” “Bani Thani Sawant Singh composed devotional poetry on Krishna and Radha in Brajbhasha under the pen name Nagari Das. He is said to have been passionately in love with a young singer, who was accorded the title ‘Bani Thani’, the bewitching lady of fashion, because of her unparalleled beauty and elegance.…” |
