Question

Which Nayika, among the following is depicted in this painting?

• A. Utka
• B. Abhisarika
• C. Vasaksajja
• D. Svandhinpatika

Hint:

To identify the Nayika type, focus on the action and setting. Is she waiting? Preparing? Journeying? Arguing? The narrative context is the key. A journey through a dark forest at night almost always signifies an Abhisarika Nayika.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the type of Nayika (heroine) based on the visual narrative of the painting. The classification of Nayikas is a central theme in Indian miniature painting, based on classical texts on aesthetics.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The painting depicts a finely dressed woman moving purposefully through a dark and dangerous forest at night, with snakes on the path and lightning often shown in the sky in similar works. This is the classic iconography of the Abhisarika Nayika. 'Abhisarika' is the heroine who defies all dangers and social conventions to go out and meet her lover. The other Nayikas represent different situations: Utka waits anxiously, Vasaksajja prepares her home, and Svadhinapatika is confident in her lover's devotion. The scene of a journey through a perilous night is unique to the Abhisarika.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The Nayika depicted in the painting is the Abhisarika.