Inner State of Mind (Series, 2023)
This self-portrait series draws inspiration from the classical Indian concept of Navarasa—the nine essential emotional states or "rasas" that are central to Indian performing arts. These emotions are traditionally meant to evoke a deep, shared experience between the performer and the audience. In this series, I turn that concept inward, using myself as both the subject and the witness.
Each portrait explores a specific rasa—though rather than all nine, I have chosen to focus on the six emotional states that resonate most deeply with my own inner world. These works are not literal depictions, but symbolic interpretations of emotion—channeling personal moments of conflict, vulnerability, strength, and reflection. Through varying facial expressions, bodily gestures, and textured environments, I attempt to visually translate complex psychological experiences. The layered backgrounds, fragmented surfaces, and deliberate use of color and shadow evoke the raw intensity of emotional upheaval. This series is an intimate journey—a mirror into my inner emotional landscape, shaped by memory, anxiety, longing, and resilience.
‘Shringara: beauty’ acrylics on canvas 8x10 inches
‘Karuna: Sorrow’ acrylics on canvas 8x10 inches
‘Raudra: Anger’ acrylics on canvas 8x10 inches
‘Hasya: Laughter’ acrylics on canvas 8x10 inches
‘Bibhatsa: Disgust’ acrylics on canvas 8x10 inches
