《Kandula》 (2022) Painting by Rui Ji

"Kandula" – The Wisdom Totem of Indian Mythology

This hand-painted oil painting centers on Kandula, the sacred elephant from Hindu mythology, condensing the spiritual code of an ancient civilization onto a single canvas. The colossal form of Kandula looms across the composition, its body rendered in interwoven tones of burnt sienna and charcoal, evoking the primordial deity emerging from the mist of the Ganges. The artist’s vigorous brushstrokes carve wrinkles and sinews that echo the Vedas’ description of the "cosmic web"—each line embodying Shiva’s dual nature of destruction and creation, while subtly aligning with Ganesha’s wisdom to dispel ignorance.

Where the elephant’s trunk meets its massive head, the artist seamlessly integrates Kerala’s traditional mural art: serpent-shaped neck rings symbolize eternal rebirth, framing the creature as both cosmic guardian and eternal cycle. The glowing crimson pupils, reminiscent of fireflies in twilight, mirror the Upanishads’ vision of Brahman-Ishvara unity—a flame of enlightenment piercing through ignorance’s darkness. The background’s ash-gray tone, inspired by incense-burning rituals, floats with golden specks resembling Sanskrit mantras materializing into light, transporting viewers to the celestial dance of the Mahabharata.

Notably, the lotus throne beneath Kandula’s feet diverges from Buddhist iconography, drawing instead from Hinduism’s "Eight Auspicious Symbols." This Lotus Throne of the Divine signifies that wisdom emerges from worldly engagement—not atop celestial mountains. Along the canvas edges, faint gold lines trace the 27 constellations of ancient Indian astronomy, weaving astrology and spirituality into a visual cipher.

Through the triad of strength, wisdom, and compassion, this work reimagines Hindu elephant deities for contemporary times. As one gazes into Kandula’s luminous eyes, one hears the echoes of Rama’s triumph over demons in the Ramayana, where elephants trample falsehood. This is not merely art but a dialogue spanning millennia—where pigments and myths resonate, allowing all who behold to touch the ultimate truth of Brahman-Ishvara unity.