Odia Artist Paints Divinity of Oneness to Stop War and Annihilation
The artwork, titled “All-in-One, One-in-All,” is a striking visual synthesis of mythology and philosophy
Bhubaneswar: At a time when the world appears increasingly fragmented by conflict and uncertainty, an artist from Odisha is quietly offering a message of unity through the language of colour and tradition. In his evocative new work, eminent painter Raja Kishor Moharana brings alive a profound spiritual idea—oneness in diversity—rooted deeply in Odisha’s artistic and cultural ethos.
Seen at work in his studio, brush in hand and gaze intensely fixed on the canvas, Moharana appears almost in dialogue with the divine. His latest artwork, titled “All-in-One, One-in-All,” is a striking visual synthesis of mythology and philosophy. The composition seamlessly merges multiple sacred identities—Bhagwan Krishna, Jagannath, and Ramachandra—along with elements of the mythical Nabagunjara, into a single, unified form. The result is both visually arresting and philosophically layered.
Dominated by deep blues and vibrant hues, the artwork reflects the unmistakable influence of Odisha’s traditional Pattachitra style. Intricate patterns, ornate detailing, and symbolic motifs fill the canvas, drawing the viewer into a world where mythology transcends rigid boundaries. Each element—be it the peacock form, the multi-faced divine figure, or the delicate floral patterns—appears interconnected, reinforcing the central idea that all manifestations of faith ultimately converge into one universal truth.
For Moharana, this is not merely an artistic experiment but a continuation of a lifelong journey. Born into a family of traditional artists in Puri, he inherited both skill and sensibility from his father, Binod Maharana, a celebrated Pattachitra artist honoured with the Padma Shri. After completing formal training at B.K. Art and Craft College, Bhubaneswar, and dedicating over 25 years to his craft, Moharana has steadily carved a niche for himself by blending classical techniques with contemporary themes.
His current work reflects an evolution—taking Pattachitra beyond its conventional palm-leaf and cloth base and adapting it to canvas while retaining its intricate discipline. The influence of Odisha’s temples and monasteries is evident not just in the iconography but also in the spiritual depth of his compositions.
In “All-in-One, One-in-All,” Moharana offers more than an artwork; he presents a quiet yet powerful commentary on the times we live in. By dissolving the boundaries between deities and traditions, he reminds viewers of a timeless truth—that beneath the diversity of forms and beliefs lies a shared spiritual essence.
According to art critics, — in an age often marked by division, Moharana’s canvas becomes a space of convergence—where art, faith, and philosophy come together to celebrate unity in its most divine form.
