Janamsakhi: Paintings of Guru Nanak in Early Sikh Art

Janamsakhis are stories about the life of Guru Nanak (14691539).

They have been circulating orally, in writing, and in paintings and illustrations.

B40 is one such documented artistic expression held at the British Library in London.

Its fiftyseven beautiful iconotexts narrate the life of the first Sikh Guru from his first day at school to his final moments.

The talented artist Alam Chand Raj illustrates Guru Nanaks sensuous feel for the allinclusive Divine, his interior and exterior journeys, his manifold interfaith conversations, his environmental aesthetics, and his marvelous actions.

In the language of vibrant colours Guru Nanaks transcendent materiality and worldaffirming existentiality are exquisitely written out.

The stylistic infusions of Punjabi art, Chaurapanchasika style and folkart style of the Rajasthani Malwa School bring the historical Guru close to the viewer.

Along with the artwork there is the rich text by Nikky Guninder Kaur Singh explaining the stories from a twentyfirstcentury perspective.

She insightfully explores the question how are the Janamsakhis relevant to the political, societal, economic, and environmental state of the world at present.