Description

Revered as a holy spot in the structure of a household, the Thulasi Maadam, or the Holy Basil pedestal, harbouring a basil plant , that is venerated every morning and evening, has, unfortunately , lost its significance with the newer apartment culture replacing the standalone homes of the past centuries.

The Basil pedestal is now relegated to a nominal part of a balcony, if any, in the flats that are burgeoning all over , as skyscrapers replace the skyline of the city.

I have deliberately put in a tree in the pedestal, to simultaneously bemoan the loss of the trees with buildings looming up.

This painting is perhaps a cry from the heart, a wistful memory of quieter and more peaceful times in the city of Chennai, several decades ago.

When the backyard was the domain of the Thulasi.