Ms. Elena Santoro, a first year MA Philosophy student from Amrita Darshanam – International Centre for Spiritual Studies has secured the third prize in a national level painting competition titled ‘Story on Canvas’, organized by Nav Shri Art & Culture organization, New Delhi. The judges of the contest have found her canvas, titled ‘Beyond the Battle’ to be an extraordinary work of art that captured the spirit of Bhagavad Gita.

In ‘Beyond the Battle’, Ms. Santoro portrays Lord Sree Krishna to appear in a little girl’s dream and impart her with the essence of Bhagavad Gita. Rooted firmly in the sacred texts, every element in the painting was meticulously crafted to convey the deep, philosophical meaning of the spiritual manual. This aspect of the painting was highly appreciated by the contest judges.

‘Beyond the Battle’ showcased Arjuna’s chariot to be pulled by five horses, representing the five senses. Among the five, there were two horses which were trying to run in the opposite direction, depicting the strength of our emotions which attract and repel us to certain people or objects. The garland worn by Sree Krishna was also highlighted in the painting as it represented the connection between the physical and eternal worlds. Ms. Elena Santoro is an Italian amateur artist performer and her painting will be on display in the Nav Shri Art & Culture organization gallery in New Delhi.