18 March 2025/

KRISHNA AND THE KADAMBA TREE: A DANCE OF DEVOTION THROUGH THE LENS OF SANJAY DAS

Step into the timeless world of devotion and artistry with the renowned Photographer Sanjay Das’s spellbinding photography exhibition, “Krishna and the Kadamba Tree.” Curated by the renowned Ina Puri, this exhibition will take place from the 25th to the 30th of March 2025 at the iconic Museo Camera in Gurugram. Visitors can explore this enchanting showcase between 11 AM and 7 PM.

The exhibition dives deep into the ethereal beauty of Raas Leela, the traditional Manipuri dance form dedicated to Lord Krishna and his beloved Radha. First performed under the patronage of 18th-century monarch Ningthou Ching-Thang Khomba, also known as Rajarshi Bhagya Chandra, Raas Leela portrays the divine love story of Krishna, Radha and the devoted gopis. Every gesture, every mudra, is a poetic expression of spiritual love, bringing to life the tales of divine dalliance.

“I have always been drawn to capture the mystery of a fleeting moment through my lens” – Sanjay Das

Sanjay Das’s lens captures the essence of this sacred narrative, blending vibrant visuals with profound cultural heritage. Each photograph narrates its own story, celebrating the eternal bond between the celestial lovers and their devotees.

THE SEASONS OF RAAS LEELA: A VISUAL SYMPHONY BY SANJAY DAS

The traditional Manipuri Raas Leela is a celebration of seasons, weaving stories under moonlit skies. The Basanta Raas graces the spring full moon, while the Maha Raas enchants the winter nights of November and December. Beyond these, other forms like Nitya Raas, Kunja Raas, and Diba Raas unfold with their own charm, each steeped in cultural significance.

Sanjay Das was captivated by more than the grace of this art form. What stood out to him was its uniqueness among Indian classical dances. As his lens explored, he admired the dancers’ indigenous costumes, rooted in Manipuri tradition. His photographs reveal a world where seasons, festivals and narratives blend seamlessly. Sanjay’s journey was not just about capturing performances but immersing himself in their beauty, creating images that offer an intimate glimpse into this mesmerizing tradition.

Through his evocative photographs, Sanjay Das brings to life the tender moments of Radha and Krishna’s eternal love, surrounded by the gopis—Lalita, Vishakha, Chitra, Champaklata, Tungavidya, Indurekha, Rangadevi and Sudevi. These images, drawn from his archives, narrate tales of devotion, tradition and artistry, making them truly unforgettable.

Dedicated to Basant Raas, the springtime celebration, this series transports viewers to the mystical Radhakund temple courtyard near Vrindavan. It is here that Sanjay first encountered the enchanting world of Raas Leela, a discovery that has inspired years of exploration and artistic expression.

With meticulous research and a deep connection to the dancers and musicians, renowned Photographer Sanjay Das’s work offers rare insight into the Raas Leela’s legacy.