Observe the image and answer the following question.
Observe the painting, read the passage in the image and answer the question:
Rama learns of his exile and prepares to leave Ayodhya along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana. Maintaining equanimity of mind, Rama indulges in his last acts of giving away his possessions. At the request of Rama, his brother piles up his belongings and the crowd begins to gather to receive the largesse of their beloved Rama — jewellery, sacrificial vessels, thousand cows and other treasures.
How does the artist portray the gravity of the situation in the painting?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Through the varying expressions of the characters
Option (1) Through the transparency of the garment Rama holds out — Incorrect. The transparency of the garment is one of the fine effects the artist delights in. It shows his skill, not the gravity of the moment.
Option (2) Through the varying expressions of the characters — Correct. The gravity of the moment is shown through the varying expressions of Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, the Brahmins and the crowd.
Option (3) Through the pile of gold coins and garments on the carpet — Incorrect. The gold coins and garments on the carpet are the gifts Rama gives away. They show the bounty, not the mood of the scene.
Option (4) Through the cows and calves looking up at Rama — Incorrect. The cows and calves are shown unaware of the momentous event, so they do not carry its gravity.
NCERT (2026-27):
“Rama gives away his possessions, Ayodhya Kanda, Shangri Ramayana, 1690–1700, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, USA” “Rama gives away his possessions …The bounteous gifts represented are pile of gold coins and garments on the carpet, and cows and calves unaware of the momentous event, beseechingly looking at Rama with necks stretched, gazes fixed and mouths wide open. The gravity of the situation is sensitively portrayed through varying expressions — the serene but gently smiling Rama, curious Lakshmana, an apprehensive Sita, Brahmins willing to receive but with no pleasure, and others with expressions of disbelief and gratitude. Taking pleasure in achieving fine effects, the artist delightfully depicts transparency of the garment Rama is holding out, stippled beard on the cheek and chin of the Brahmins, tilak marks, jewellery and weapons.” |
