RADHA KRISHNA : Mask Pair

Radha & Krishna - Indian Mythology's favourite romantic couple! Radha Krishna are collectively known as the feminine and masculine semblances of Indian Mythological Gods. They are symbols of unconditional love and are worshipped during every auspicious ceremony.

The prominent colours used here are blue and yellow. Lord Krishna’s mask is painted in blue that is extracted from the indigo plant enhanced with a mukut painted in yellow. However, Radha’s face painted in yellow, extracted from turmeric adds more sanctitude to the mask. The female mask also has an intricately designed mukut and ornaments like nose rings and earrings. The features of the mask are further enhanced by black lines.

This pair of masks is one of the Cherial masks which are a modified version of the Nakashi art, distinctive to the Cheriyal village, of Warangal district in Telangana. Wandering storytellers used painted Cheriyal masks to build intrigue for the gathered crowd in any festival to tell religious stories and folklore. The artistic tradition of making masks, handed down from generations is now a boon to the craftsmen in this Cheriyal village.