Rukmini going to the Devi temple, 18th century Guler painting

This eighteenth century Pahari painting in the Guler style is based on an episode narrated in the Bhagavata Purana, the most widely read Indian Purana. The scene depicted here shows Rukmini coming out of the palace escorted by heavily armed soldiers and her maids. This Kangra painting from the hill states of India is an excellent example of the art of miniature painting that flourished in India.

Rukmini, the daughter of Bhishmaka, king of Vidarbha, falls in love with Krishna about whose charm, character and valor she has heard much of. She is promised in marriage to Shishupala, the crown prince of Chedi by her brother Rukmi, much against her wishes. Rukmini sends a letter to Krishna asking him to kidnap her when she is on her way to the temple. Krishna who falls in love with her, hearing about her unparalleled beauty decides to rescue her.