Story Of Tri Dev

“Tri Dev”

This painting named “Tri Dev” is related to Hinduism. By the time of the Guptas, the religious beliefs and practices had much changed from those of the Vedic time. Its most important aspects were the idea of the trinity of Gods, with Brahma- the Creator, Vishnu- the Preserver and Siva- the Destroyer. Most of the Hindus became devotees of Vishnu or Siva. It is important to remember that while we call this mythology, we are talking about a religion that is very much alive and active. In worship, Brahma is considered no longer active, and therefore does not have a large following. Shiva and Vishnu have competing temples, and their worship is spread throughout the land. The idea of devotion or bhakti to God also originated around this time and the cult of Krishna, who was identified with Vishnu, started developing.

In this painting on the one hand Brahma, Vishnu & Mahesha have been painted and on the other hand the creator has been shown in the center, who having created the world, left it, is now in the peaceful pasture. On the one hand, the protector has been shown who has been protecting the creation and He is now happy to observe whatever good in this world has been going on. Only due to this cause a slight happiness on his face has been shown.

On the other hand, in a wrathful pasture, the Annihilator (Destroyer) has been shown. Shiva represents destruction. This immediately makes us think of bad, angry, vengeful Gods! But Shiva is unpredictable and ambivalent in his position. He will destroy if it brings balance to the earth. Here Shiva, Who is anger having seen all sorts of evils going on in this world.

They also represent the three elements Earth, Water and Fire and the stages of Birth, Life and Death.

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