The Hindu deity Krishna as the god of love, personifying a musical mode (Vibhasa Ragini)

Representing classical music modes as a narrative is a unique feature of “garland of raga” (ragamala) paintings, a well-loved genre of Indian art. Love is the central theme in this image of a monsoon season raga. Artists have taken inspiration from verses like this one that describe the Vibhasa Ragini:

            Megha malara [“autumn clouds,” the name of a raga]

has entered on the path of love,

and the clouds have assumed full measure of glory.

Love has taken bow and arrow in hands,

and Desire is considering in her heart the battle of love.

She lays a loving hand on her breast

and turning her face, awakens her darling’s love.

Both are hardy and valiant fighters,

both are well matched and neither yields.

Both are alike in beauty of form, the tender girl and the lusty youth.

Hear the tale of love, the passionate pleasure of union.

Only if you look with the eyes of love will you see the

true color of love!

(Translation from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston