Top 10 Iconic Raja Ravi Varma Paintings You Must See: A Journey Through Indian Art History

Raja Ravi Varma: Master of Indian Art and His Iconic Women Portraits

Raja Ravi Varma is often called the Father of Modern Indian Art (29 April 1848 – 2 October 1906 ) was a 19th century Indian painter who is considered one of the greatest painters in the history of Indian art. Varma had a unique talent for mixing traditional Indian themes with Western art techniques. His paintings are known for their bright colors and detailed designs. They often show mythological characters and Indian royalty, which challenged the art norms of his time

Raja Ravi Varma: The Father of Modern Indian Art

One of the most important features of Raja Ravi Varma's work is his realistic portrayal of sacred Hindu characters. His paintings, like Shakuntala and Damyanti, caused controversy because they showed divine beings in a human-like way, which was different from traditional styles.

In this blog, we’ll explore the iconic female portraits by Raja Ravi Varma, which remain timeless representations of Indian women in art. These paintings have become widely admired and are often reproduced as framed printed artworks of Raja Ravi Varma that adorn homes and galleries worldwide.


1. Shakuntala: A Masterpiece of Indian Mythology
Raja Ravi Varma painting “Shakuntala” is considered one of his most famous works. The painting depicts the scene from the Indian epic “Mahabharata” where Shakuntala, a beautiful and virtuous woman, is seen pretending to remove a thorn from her foot while stealing a glance at her lover, King Dushyanta.

Why it's Famous: This painting captures the emotion of longing and love through the delicate expression of Shakuntala. The softness in her posture and the use of vibrant colors make this one of the most iconic women in Ravi Varma paintings.

 

Shakuntala by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Art Print for Home Decor

2. Damayanti Talking with a Swan: A Tale of Love and Destiny
Inspired by a tale from the Mahabharata, Damayanti portrays the beautiful Damayanti talking to a swan, which serves as a messenger between her and King Nala. The painting is rich with symbolism, representing love and longing.

Why it's Famous: Varma’s depiction of Damayanti’s serene beauty and grace makes this painting a favorite among art lovers. It is often praised for its detailed rendering of her expression and the fine balance between realism and myth.

A swan telling Damayanti of Nala's love by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Art

3. Lakshmi: The Goddess of Wealth and Prosperity
Raja Ravi Varma’s portrayal of Goddess Lakshmi is among his most widely recognized works. The goddess is depicted standing on a lotus, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. His paintings not only showcase the divine beauty of Lakshmi but also reflect the cultural and spiritual ethos of India.

Why it's Famous: This painting is iconic for its divine and serene portrayal of Lakshmi, and it remains one of the most popular choices for framed printed artworks of Raja Ravi Varma. It’s a staple in Indian homes and temples, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.

Lakshmi on her Lotus by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Art Print for Home Decor

4. Goddess Saraswati
Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of knowledge, music, and arts, is beautifully portrayed by Varma. Holding her veena, Saraswati exudes a calm and divine grace, symbolizing wisdom and creativity.

Why it's Famous: The elegance and detail in the depiction of the goddess make it one of Varma’s most iconic female portraits. This painting is often used in educational spaces and homes, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and arts.

5. Radha in the Moonlight
This romantic painting captures Radha, the beloved of Lord Krishna, in a serene, moonlight setting. The soft lighting and delicate details in Radha’s attire and jewelry evoke a sense of peace and divinity. It can be seen easily that Radha, being a woman of unparalleled beauty, has been painted by Raja Ravi Varma with a particular focus, utmost care, and refinement. Aware of Krishna’s Godly qualities Radha has the pooja thali, the platter of flowers and sweets near her, the ritual of worship and adulation to be completed before the love play (raasleela) starts.

Why it's Famous: The painting’s dreamy ambiance and romantic theme make it one of Varma’s most enchanting depictions of Indian women in art.

6. Shakuntala Patra Lekhan
Shakuntala Patra Lekhan by Raja Ravi Varma is a famous painting depicting Shakuntala, the heroine of Kalidasa's play Abhijnanasakuntalam, writing a love letter to King Dushyanta. In this scene, Shakuntala is lost in thought as she pens her feelings for her lover. Varma captures the delicate emotion of longing and the beauty of Shakuntala’s serene expression.

Why it’s Famous: The painting is celebrated for its romantic theme and intricate detailing, reflecting Varma’s ability to convey deep emotions through realism. It beautifully represents Indian women in art with elegance and grace.

Shakuntala Patra-lekhan by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Home Decor Painting

7. Mohini on a Swing
Mohini on a Swing by Raja Ravi Varma depicts Mohini, the female avatar of Lord Vishnu, known for her beauty and charm in Hindu mythology. In the painting, she is shown seated on a swing under a large tree, wearing a white sari with a golden border and simple jewelry. Mohini’s windswept hair and graceful pose, as she swings higher, create a scene of carefree joy and playfulness. The scenic background and Varma’s use of intricate details enhance her sensual beauty, blending the divine with human charm.

Why it’s Famous: This painting is celebrated for its portrayal of women in Ravi Varma paintings, blending divinity and sensuality in a captivating way. It showcases Mohini’s alluring nature, making it a popular piece in framed printed artworks of Raja Ravi Varma & a significant representation of Indian women in art.

Mohini on a Swing by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Art Painting for Decor

8. Madri or The Maharashtrian Lady
It features a mysterious woman dressed in a traditional Maharashtrian crimson silk sari, holding a plate of fruit. Madri or The Maharashtrian Lady  identity remains unknown, adding intrigue to the painting. Like many of Ravi Varma's female portraits, the subject has large, expressive eyes, a hallmark of beauty in ancient Indian culture. The vivid sari and exquisite jewelry showcase the artist's mastery of color and detail. The plate of fruit, influenced by European still-life traditions, symbolizes fertility and infuses a subtle sensuality into the artwork.

Why it’s Famous: This painting is celebrated for its lifelike realism, blending light, shadows, and rich colors. Varma's unique ability to capture a "slice of life" makes the subject appear almost lifelike, as if she could step out of the frame. The work also demonstrates his talent for portraying the strength and confidence of Indian women in art, a hallmark of women in Ravi Varma paintings. The painting remains a popular choice for framed printed artworks of Raja Ravi Varma, admired for its beauty and sensual undertones.

Madri or the Maharashtrian Lady with Fruit by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Art

9. Ahalya Leaning on a Tree
Ahalya Leaning on a Tree by Raja Ravi Varma portrays Ahalya, a prominent figure from Indian mythology, in a moment of calm reflection. She is depicted leaning against a tree, dressed in a simple yet elegant sari, exuding grace and serenity. Varma's delicate use of light and color captures her ethereal beauty and the emotional depth of her story, which involves themes of redemption and divine forgiveness.


10. Padmini the Lotus Lady
Padmini, the Lotus Lady  by Raja Ravi Varma is a captivating painting that depicts a beautiful woman, symbolically linked to the lotus, which represents purity and grace in Indian culture. Dressed in rich attire, Padmini is portrayed with a serene expression, exuding elegance and poise. The lotus flower adds a spiritual dimension, making her a symbol of beauty and divinity.

Why it’s Famous: This painting is renowned for its blend of symbolism and realism, highlighting the purity and charm of Indian women in art. It stands as one of the iconic female portraits by Raja Ravi Varma, admired for its rich detailing and spiritual depth. A popular choice for framed printed artworks of Raja Ravi Varma, it continues to captivate art lovers with its lifelike beauty and symbolic representation typical of women in Ravi Varma paintings.

 

Padmini, the Lotus lady by Raja Ravi Varma Wall Art Print for Home Decor

Conclusion

Raja Ravi Varma’s portrayal of women has left an indelible mark on Indian art. His paintings are revered not only for their technical mastery but also for their emotional depth and cultural significance. From goddesses to everyday women, the female portraits by Raja Ravi Varma capture the beauty, strength, and grace of Indian women are available at The Atrang. Whether in mythological scenes or realistic portraits, these artworks continue to inspire and captivate art lovers.

Today, these iconic women in Ravi Varma paintings are celebrated worldwide, with many of them available as framed printed artworks that bring a touch of elegance and cultural heritage into homes and galleries.