Observe the image and answer the following question.
The Guler–Kangra painting in the image depicts Radha approaching the forest while Krishna waits for her. What is the source of the artist’s imagination for this painting?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → An inscribed verse of Jayadeva on the reverse of the painting
Option (1) A passage from the Rasa Panchdhyayi of the Bhagvata Purana — Incorrect. The Rasa Panchdhyayi, on the gopis’ love for Krishna, lies behind Re-enacting Krishna’s deeds, not this Gita Govinda painting.
Option (2) An inscribed verse of Jayadeva on the reverse of the painting — Correct. The painter drew on the inscription on the reverse, a song of Jayadeva urging Radha to give up her shyness and go to her beloved.
Option (3) Keshav Das’s account of the Baramasa in the Kavipriya — Incorrect. The Kavipriya describes the modes of love for each month; it is the source of Baramasa paintings.
Option (4) A couplet from the Bihari Satsai on the hesitant heroine — Incorrect. The Bihari Satsai is a popular Kangra theme, but this painting comes from the Gita Govinda.
NCERT (2026-27): “Awaiting Krishna and the Hesitant Radha … In this painting, Radha is shown feeling shy and hesitant as she approaches the forested area, while Krishna is seen eagerly waiting for her. The source to the artist’s imagination is the inscription on the reverse of the painting, which is translated as follows. … This beautiful song of Jayadeva may always rest upon the lips of the devotees of Krishna.”
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