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RAJASTHAN, INDIA, October 21, 2004: A unique art form was discovered in Jaipur where the canvas is not cloth or paper, but sheer water. Sanjhi — paintings that float on water — are made as a tribute to Lord Krishna during this festive season. Over 200 years old, this rare art and has been kept alive by just one family in Udaipur, who have been practicing it for generations. “From the birth of Krishna to the destruction of Kansa, our themes have always been the legend of Krishna,” says Rajesh Vaishnav, the artist. “Today, I have made the famous ras leela or garba dance that Krishna does with his gopis,” Vaishnav says.



Water placed in a flat vessel is sprinkled with black charcoal powder and some secret ingredients to create a floating base. Colors are then filled into paper stencils, which are skillfully lifted without disturbing the surface of the water. The art of Sanjhi is similar to the Pichwai paintings of Nathdwara that have evolved around the Krishna sect, except that Sanjhi is done not on canvas but on water and this art has been kept alive through generations by just one family in Udaipur. Originally created with natural mineral colors, modern chemical colors have proved to be a setback for this rare art. “Nowadays, colors have a lot of chemicals in them that creates a lot of problem because unlike natural colors, these chemical colors don’t always float on water and, if they sink, they destroy the painting,” says Vaishnav



What used to be a thriving art form is now dying a slow death and though Rajesh has taught his skills to his two sons, he’s doubtful his future generations will practise the Sanjhis as a lucrative option.

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