The Shangri Ramayana is named after Shangri, the residence of a branch of the Kullu royal family. What was this family’s link with the set?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Patrons and formerly possessors of the set
Option (1) Painters of the set — Incorrect. The set was painted by Kullu artists. The royal family are not named as its painters.
Option (2) Rulers who brought the set from Basohli — Incorrect. The set was painted in the Kullu Valley. Only its style was influenced by Basohli and Bilaspur.
Option (3) Patrons and formerly possessors of the set — Correct. The branch of the Kullu royal family living at Shangri were the patrons and formerly possessors of the set.
Option (4) Donors of the set to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art — Incorrect. One folio, Rama gives away his possessions, is now in this museum. The family are named as patrons and former owners, not as donors.
NCERT (2026-27): “Basohli School …The Sanskrit epic, Ramayana, was one of the favourite texts of the hill artists at Basohli, as well as, Kullu. This set derives its name from ‘Shangri’, the place of residence of a branch of the Kullu royal family, patrons and formerly possessors of this set. These works of Kullu artists were influenced in varying degrees by the styles of Basohli and Bilaspur.” |