c. 1720

Krishna Encounters the Elephant Kuvalayapida

Krishna's evil uncle Kansa arranged a great wrestling match to be held in a grandly decorated arena. Hearing the sounds of preparation, Krishna and Balarama try to enter the arena but the great elephant Kuvalayapida blocks their way. Krishna tells the elephant driver to move-or else-but his threat enrages both driver and elephant. The top section of this painting shows Kansa enthroned in the arena and talking with a group of courtiers. The lower section depicts the moment when the brothers encounter elephant and driver.