The lotus rises clean from mud. It is the oldest Indian image of beauty that owes nothing to its surroundings, and the reason UPSKARA's quiet wing is named Kamal.
Purity and rising
Kamal, the lotus, is the seat of Lakshmi and the flower held by Vishnu. It stands for purity, prosperity and new beginnings because it opens unmarked above the water it grows from.
In Pichwai
Lotus ponds fill the lower register of most Pichwais: buds, open flowers and seed heads together, so the whole life of the flower is shown at once. Pale pink on dark green is the signature contrast of the tradition.
In embroidery and border work
On torans and border panels the lotus repeats as a scalloped edge or a running vine. It is the most common auspicious border in the country.
In the home
A lotus study suits a bedroom or study, rooms made for rest. As a border it belongs at the entrance and around a pooja corner.
Questions people ask
Is the lotus a religious motif?
It is sacred in Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions, and at the same time a purely decorative flower in courtly art. In a home it reads as calm and welcome.
Which UPSKARA collection is the lotus?
Kamal, the quiet wing: florals, foliage and lotus borders in restrained colour.
