Yantra: The Cosmic Geometry of Existence?

Uday Shankar was not merely a dancer; he was a sculptor of movement, a weaver of narratives through the intricate tapestry of his body. But beyond his renowned choreography and masterful performances, Shankar also possessed an artistic spirit that transcended the stage. His fascination with Indian spirituality and ancient symbolism led him to create “Yantra,” a series of captivating abstract paintings infused with cosmic energy.

“Yantra” in Sanskrit refers to geometric diagrams believed to hold spiritual power and represent the universe’s fundamental structure. Shankar, drawing upon his deep understanding of these sacred blueprints, translated their essence onto canvas. The result is a mesmerizing collection of works that pulsate with vibrant colors, intricate lines, and a profound sense of order emerging from apparent chaos.

Decoding the Cosmic Language:

One cannot simply “look” at a “Yantra” painting; one must engage with it, decipher its language, and allow oneself to be drawn into its intricate web of meaning. Each shape, color, and line plays a specific role in weaving a narrative that transcends the physical realm.

• Circles: Symbolize wholeness, unity, and the cyclical nature of existence. They often represent the cosmos itself or the infinite cycles of creation and destruction.
• Triangles: Represent the trinity of gods, the balance of forces, and the ascent towards enlightenment. Their pointed angles suggest dynamism and a striving for higher realms.
• Squares: Symbolize stability, earthly foundations, and the four elements – earth, air, fire, and water.

Shankar masterfully employs these geometric motifs, interlacing them with flowing lines and vibrant colors that evoke a sense of cosmic energy pulsating through the canvas.

The Alchemy of Color:

Color in Shankar’s “Yantras” is not merely decorative; it plays a vital role in activating the painting’s spiritual potential. Traditional Indian color symbolism is interwoven into his palette, imbuing each hue with specific meaning:

• Red: Represents power, energy, and the life force that animates the universe.
• Blue: Symbolizes peace, tranquility, and the infinite depths of consciousness.
• Yellow: Associated with knowledge, wisdom, and the illuminating light of spiritual understanding.

By blending these colors in specific combinations, Shankar creates a visual symphony that resonates on both an intellectual and emotional level. The viewer is drawn into a world of vibrant energy and serene contemplation, where the boundaries between the physical and the metaphysical blur.

“Yantra”: Beyond Aesthetics

While undeniably beautiful and captivating, “Yantra” paintings transcend mere aesthetic appreciation. They are portals to introspection, invitations to explore the inner landscape and connect with the underlying unity that permeates all existence. Shankar’s art encourages us to see beyond the surface, to delve into the profound symbolism embedded within each line and color, and ultimately to experience a sense of interconnectedness with the universe itself.

Perhaps this is the true essence of “Yantra”: a visual representation of the eternal dance between form and formlessness, between the known and the unknown, reminding us that we are all part of a grand cosmic tapestry woven together by invisible threads of energy and consciousness.

Let’s look at some examples:

Title	Description	Dominant Colors
“Cosmic Seed”	Explores the genesis of creation, with a central circle	Red, Blue
representing the primordial spark.
“The Ascent”	Depicts the journey towards enlightenment through intricate	Yellow, Gold
triangles and ascending lines.

A Legacy of Spiritual Exploration:

Uday Shankar’s “Yantra” paintings stand as a testament to his artistic vision and spiritual depth. They invite us not only to appreciate their beauty but also to engage with the complex tapestry of symbolism they represent, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and connection with the universe itself.