The artwork entitled “Mohini and Rugmangada to kill his own son” was created by the renowned artist Raja Ravi Varma in 1899. Raja Ravi Varma is celebrated for his ability to bring characters from Indian mythology and epics to life through his paintings. This particular work belongs to the Academicism movement, a traditional style that appreciated and followed the standards of Greek and Roman art. The genre of the painting is mythological, portraying a scene steeped in lore and tradition.
The painting presents a dramatic moment within a palatial interior setting, rich with elaborate architectural detail. At the center is a noble figure assumed to be Raja Ravi Varma, who stands firmly with a look of declaration as he gazes upwards. Before him is a woman depicted with poise and elegance, dressed in a traditional Indian saree. The woman, identified as Mohini—a divine enchantress in Hindu mythology—is portrayed as the epitome of classical feminine beauty that Varma is known for in his works.
A young boy faces the noble figure, holding his hand in a possible gesture of respect or appeal. The child’s expression is one of innocence and naivety, unaware of the gravity of the situation unfolding. The inclusion of other individuals in the painting, who appear as courtiers or family members, adds depth to the narrative, suggesting a collective suspense shared by the onlookers. The foreground comprises a figure prostrate on the ground, adding to the emotional weight and complexity of the scene.
Raja Ravi Varma’s choice of warm hues and his meticulous attention to drapery and ornamentation capture the grandeur and decadence of a bygone era. Through this artwork, Ravi Varma effectively bridges the gap between divine mythological themes and the human condition, engaging the viewer with a moment that transcends time and speaks to enduring cultural stories.
