Dwarka ( Dwarawati in ancient Sanskrit literature) situated on the west coast of India, is an ancient harbour and an important religious centre for Hindus with its strong association with Krishna and the great Indian epic, the Mahabharata .
It is believed that due to damage and destruction by the sea, Dwaraka was submerged six times and modern day Dwarka is therefore the seventh incarnation of this temple city. In addition to the ravages of the sea, Dwarka was attacked and the ancient temple destroyed repeatedly by Muslim invaders including Mohammad Shah in 1241and Mahmud Begada in 1473
My interest was focussed around a tiny island called Byet Dwarka which lies about 35 kms from Dwarka. This is believed to be the site of the original submerged underwater city of Krishna where previous marine archaeological exploration had revealed finds suggesting a submerged city of the Late Harappan period.(1500 BCE)
A profusion of 3-holed triangular stone anchors have also been found. I personally spotted one lying close to the submerged stone structure at a mere 3m depth while snorkelling some 10 metres from the shoreline at Bet Dwarka.
I reached the Okha port at Dwarka harbour and boarded a packed ferry to get to Bet Dwarka. The harbour scene was wonderful crowded and colourful, with hundreds of fishing boats, ferries and ships at a distance. The profusion of rigging and ropes, screaming and swooping gulls added to the action which I had to catch on canvas.
Original: Oil on canvas ; 12 x 16″ (305 x 410mm) ; framed
Limited Edition Print : Available as Giclee print on finest quality paper or canvas. International shipment
Sizes available: 8 x 12″(203 x 305 mm); 12 x 16″(305 x 410mm); 18 x 24″(457 x 610 mm); 24 x 32″ (610 x 813mm)
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Will post rolled up in a tube with Certificate of Authenticity, number of the print and artist’s signature.
