Starry Strokes HN Suresh

Aquarius (The Water Bearer) or Kumbha: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2008

101

PISCES (The Fish) or MEENA : PISCES - MEENA

Calendar Months, February 19 - March 20 Sympathetic, compassionate, Imaginative,
self-sacrifcing, sensitive, spiritual
The constellation is supposed to represent two fishes with their tails
tied together by a cord. As it consists of mostly faint stars and looks like Season : Winter / Shishira
an extensive “V” shaped group of stars, it can be seen only on a clear,
dark moonless night. The western fish ends in a small circle-et. In Hindu Lord : Guru / Jupiter
astronomy, the star Zeta Piscium is known as Revathi. The ruling planet
is Jupiter or Guru. Colour : Sparking White

Type : Water / Jala

Sex : Female

Mobility : Common / Dwiswabhavi

Mean Duration (Days) : 29.71

Suns Longitude on Entry : 330°

Suns Declination on Entry : 11.47°

Body Part : Feet

Best Day : Saturday

Best Numbers : 3 & 7

Nakshatra : Purvabhadra,
Uttarabhadra, Revathi

Direction : North East

102

Pisces (The Fish) or Meena: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2008

103

Dr Mathoor Krishnamurti Prof. M.H.
Executive Director, Krishnaiah
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Art Critic
We welcome you for this It is surprising to see
exhibition, a rare exhibition that in these exhibits of
according to me. Here you will zodiacs, constellations
find your own image. Five years and others, Suresh
ago Suresh had painted the stars. Stars are twenty seven in number. And has created a new language - a language of the universe, a visual
after that success he went a few steps further and painted planets. But language that intelligently blends astronomy and astrology within the
this time it is Zodiac signs. This is an amazing work. They are 12 in framework of traditional art.
number. We are all influenced by these Planets and Ràshis. Not that they
direct us to do this or do that. We have to infer under what Zodiac we Yusuf Arakkal
come and what is our nature. I am sure if you spend some time and not Artist
rush through looking at these paintings, you will certainly return with A few striking things
feelings that you have gained something. about these paintings
are the depiction
Dr. Choodamani of our traditional
Nandagopal aesthetics. The way
Art Historian Suresh has handled
In this rare exhibition you colours and lines and
will find your own image. even the figures, more
In Suresh's paintings, the or less goes back to traditional aesthetics. It also has contemporary
detail of each ràshi has connotations - the connotations of tantric symbols that are very
been given. He is a creative much part of our traditional art. I think the way he has handled
artist. A few things about the space and colours is extremely professional and we all should be
these paintings that strike everyone are the depiction of our traditional proud that this unique work has come out from Karnataka.
aesthetics. What Suresh has created is an eye-opener to the younger
generation.

104

Dr. S. Krishnakumar Dr. Ramachandra Akkihal
Chairman Director
Indian Council for Marshall University, USA
Astrological Research
Suresh has exhibited I am very pleased to have
zodiac signs in a beautiful this opportunity to witness
manner. He has brought the art in its finest form done
the science of space down to by Sri H.N.Suresh. We had
earth, in the form of art. He has depicted the significance of these signs. his exhibition in the USA in
The signs contain a variety of information such as clusters of stars, Marshall University campus
colour, character, etc. Every element is depicted in a precise manner. He three years back, and it went on very well. My colleagues were there,
has taken care to use different colours for different signs scientifically. from the Fine Arts Department of the University and were very
appreciative of the paintings. It is very pleasing to see these graceful
Dr. C.V. Vishveshwara colors, done so professionally and pleasingly.
Cosmologist Dr. Lalitha Srinivasan
These are extraordinarily Director - Nupura
vibrant paintings. He
has combined important I have seen H.N.Suresh work
elements of astronomy by on his paintings of Nakshatra,
showing the pictures of Navagraha, Ràshi Mandala and
the constellations and also Ashtadikpalakas. His drawings
some elements of astrology. Astronomy and astrology have been two of these deities are strong and
parallel streams in the past. But the fusion of these two is important in impressive, with firm lines which
a cultural way. These paintings are well made, attractive and scholarly. go to make the character of these
mythological figures, which I
have admired. To this he adds the
vahanas, symbols, constellations and other details.
Suresh is fond of rangoli patterns. Hence his paintings look like a
mosaic of many ingredients. He uses deep colours for the background.
He has done a lot of research and gone through several books. Hence the
final product is informative, with meticulously followed details.

105

Ashtadikapalaka: Acrylic on canvas • 152 cms x 152 cms • 2015

106

AshtaDikpalakas

107

108

ASHTADIKPALAKA : NUCLEUS OF EIGHT

Ashtadikpalaka is a one-of-its-kind painting series inspired
by the concept of time and space, integrating science and art
to coalesce into the eight directions, bringing in aspects of
mathematics, astronomy, astrology and cosmology in vibrant,
earthy hues. This series is a culmination of Suresh’s earlier
paintings - Naksthatra Mandala, Navagraha Mandala and
Ràshi Mandala, based on the same concept, completing 60 such
artworks in the series.
The current set of paintings depicting East (Poorva), Southeast
(Agneya), South (Dakshina), Southwest (Niruthi), West
(Paschima), Northwest (Vayuya), North (Uttara) and Northeast
(Ishanya) plus a composite work incorporating all eight
directions, comprises individually the form and attributes of
the Dikpalakas as per Indian tradition, and the beejaksharas,
besides astrophysics.
This is a representation of all eight guardians of the eight
directions on a single frame. Here the prominence is more on
constellations than on traditional deities, who are of course
shown in the background. The details of both Indian thought
and astrophysics concepts are boldly projected to emphasize the
scientific aspect which encompass 0° to 360°. This constellation
is given as recorded on 22-02-2015 midnight.

- Jyothi Raghuram

109

INDRA - EAST : PLACE OF PROTECTION

Point of reference taken
from astrophysics for 0°to
360° is Indra. The star
constellation points to the
popular Zosma and Regulus,
as observed at midnight on
22-02-2015. Heroic Indra, the
leader of Devas, and whose
abode is Amaravathi in
Svargaloka (Indraloka), is the
presiding deity of the East.
Synonymous with Indra are
Airavata, his white elephant-
a symbol of royal strength,
and Vajra, his weapon akin to
a thunderbolt. His symbol is
also Vajra.
A primary deity worshipped
during the Rigvedic period,
the all-powerful Indra, in
keeping with the direction he
guards, is believed to push
up the sky and release Ushas
(dawn) from the Vala cave.
The beejakshara is “Lam”,
and the beejamantra: “Om
Lam Indraaya Namaha”. The
Guardian Matrika of the East
is Aindri and the planet of
influence, Surya (Sun).

Indra: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

110

AGNI - SOUTHEAST : PLACE OF GOOD FORTUNE

270° to 315° of Agni covers
the Hydra constellation. This
direction has Agni as its Lord.
With the beejamantra, “Om
Rum Aagneya Namaha”,
and the beejakshara, “Rum”,
the fire deity has the spear
as weapon, ram as vaahana,
Meshavahini as Guardian
Matrika, and Sukra (Venus)
as the planet of influence.
Agni, identified with energy
and action, is an important
entity in Ayurveda. In Tibetan
and Japanese Buddhism,
Agni is the Lokapala of
the Southeast. In Greek
mythology, Prometheus, the
ancient God of Fire, aided
Zeus in his fight against his
father.

Agni: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

111

YAMA - SOUTH : PLACE OF GOOD RESULTS

Lepus, Ameb, Nihal and
Sasin - 225° to 270° is the
constellation configuration
for Yama.
Yama, the Lord of Death,
rules over the South. He is
also referred to as the Lord of
Dharma for his sense of fair
play and justice. Expectedly,
he is on the opposite end of
the spectrum of Indra–Yama
lives in Naraka, also known
as Yamaloka. The water
buffalo is his vaahana, the
danda his weapon. He holds
a loop of rope in his left hand
to pull the soul from the
corpse.
Another Lokapala, and
the son of Surya, Yama is a
powerful deity. “Om Mam
Yamaya Namaha” is his
beejamantra, and “Mam” his
beejaakshara. The Guardian
Matrika of the South is Varahi
and the planet of influence,
Mangala (Mars).

Yama: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

112

NIRUTHI - SOUTHWEST : PLACE OF NEGATIVE ENERGIES

The constellation of Deneb
and Cetus configurate
Niruthi, at 180° - 225°. Cetus
is near to the region of the
sky that comprises other
water-related constellations
such as Pisces, Aquarius
and Eridanus. Known as
the destructive Goddess of
darkness, Niruthi is usually
associated with misfortune.
“Naravahana” or man, is
her vehicle, and trishula
or trident is her weapon,
Niruthi has Ketu as the
planet of influence and
Khadgadhaarini as Guardian
Matrika. “Om Ksam
Rakshasaaya Namaha” is her
beejamantra, and “Ksham”
her beejaakshara. She lives in
Naihirit Loka.

Niruthi: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

113

VARUNA - WEST : PLACE OF RAIN AND PLANT GROWTH

Varying between 135° and
180°, Varuna has the Simmah
as its astral cluster, again
as observed on 22-02-2015
midnight. Varuna, the God
of the night sky (space), the
rivers and oceans, and keeper
of the souls of the dead,
rides Makara, a crocodile,
wielding his Pasha (lasso)
or Varunastra. His abode is
the celestial ocean (Rasaa),
his beejamantra: Om Vaam
Varunaaya Namaha, and
his beejaakshara: “Vaam”.
Vedic Varuna comes closest
to the Greek Poseidon and
Roman Neptune vis a vis their
mythologies. The Guardian
Matrika of the West is Varuni
and the planet of influence,
Shani (Saturn).

Varuna: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

114

VAAYuVYA - NORTHWEST : PLACE OF STRENGTH

At 90° to 135°, Vayuvya
comprises the Deneb
constellation. Deneb is one
of the most luminous nearby
stars. Vayu, the Lord of this
direction, has the gazelle as
his vahana, with Chandra
(Moon) being the planet
of influence. “Om Yam
Vaayuve Namaha” is the
beejamantra, and “Yam” is
the beejaakshara. The flag is
his weapon, and Mrigavahini
the Guardian Matrika. His
abode is Gandhavati. Vayu
is also known as Pavana (the
purifier) and Prana (breath).

Vaayavya: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

115

KUBERA - NORTH : PLACE OF WEALTH AND HAPPINESS

This direction - 45° to 90°-
is synonymous with the
popular star constellation,
Polaris, which, in the Indian
reference, is the Saptarshi
Mandala. It is also known as
the Pole Star or North Star.
Herculus and Albico are the
noticeable stars observed on
the midnight of 22-02-2015.
Represented in rainbow
colours, Kubera, the Lord of
the North, and the king of the
Yakshas, is also a Lokapala,
by virtue of being the ruling
deity of a cardinal direction.
He is better known as the
Lord of Wealth. “Om Kum
Kuberaaya Namaha” is his
beejamantra and “Kum” the
beejaakshara. The Buddhist
Vaisravana or Jambhala and
the Japanese Bishamon are
Kubera’s counterparts in
those cultures. He lives in
Alaka in the Himalayas.
The Guardian Matrika of
the North is Kumari and the
planet of influence, Budha
(Mercury).

Kubera: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

116

IShANA - NORTHEAST : PLACE OF WATER ELEMENT

Bootes, a constellation in
the northern sky, located
between 0° to 45°, is the
major constellation here.
Bootes is home to several
bright stars including
Arcturus, the fourth brightest
star in the night sky. “Ham”,
the beejaakshara, leads to
the beejamantra, “Om Ham
Ishanaaya Namaha”. Ishana
sports a trishula or trident,
and rides on a Vrishabha or
bull. Brihaspati (Jupiter) is
the planet of influence for
the Northeast, the Guardian
Matrika being Maheshvari.

Isana: Acrylic on canvas • 91 cms x 91 cms • 2015

117

Excerpts from Views and Reviews

His work is a result of his knowledge Artist H.N.Suresh could best be described 23rd August, 1973
of ancient Indian texts, astronomy as a philosopher-artist. A man who has
and astrology. And what makes the borrowed from science, astronomy as well Sensitive Oil Paintings • By Our Art Critic
concept unique is the blend of science as our age old “Jyotish Vidya” to come out
and aesthetics that H.N.Suresh is able to with a collection of paintings which fuse all Bengaluru, Aug. 22. — The oil paintings
bring forth in his paintings through his these elements into a single whole. of H.N.Suresh (student of R.M. Hadapad)
imagination, creativity, use of colours and Suresh has let the experiment, use of a rigid on show at the Max Mueller Bhavan tend
symbols. formula, definitions and colours as defined to be packed more with incidents than do
He has been working on this series in three by science and traditional wisdom as far colour-abstractions.
phases. The works are a riot of colours as astrology and astronomy are concerned, To arrive at such effects, Suresh obviously
and there is an aesthetic combination of speak for itself. follows his impulses wherever they lead,
symbols, forms, animate and inanimate remaining open to a variety of experience.
objects to explain the subject. Yes, there is The series unfolds his deep study of the His vision is seemingly governed by
both perspective and expression and it is twin subjects of astrology and astronomy renowned literary works as can be seen in
a continuing process. The subject of the together, both in their scientific and a majority of the 30 works in show.
work, the planetary world (Navagrahas), ethereal perspectives. There has been a But his style appears more classically
Zodiac signs, is absorbing and around the generous use of symbols and motifs in minded than seen in contemporary art.
world people associate with the theme, his works that help in identifying the Though a modernist, his attitude has
Suresh has done a deep study and research characteristics of each design and the developed in reaction against abstract
as is obvious by the distinct imagery, coloration, which lends a distinct imagery expressionism.
variety of motifs that help in identifying to the form. All this indicates the extensive His subject matter shows a leaning towards
the characteristics of each design. study that has gone into each composition. surrealism to a limited extent, searching as
The calligraphic forays that dot the surface it were a field of psycho-analysis. While
One look at the paintings and it seems as in the series on Nakshatras heighten the “Soul Change”, “Kundalini” and “Om and
if the entire cosmos has been captured on visual impact in configuration. Shri” are symbolic, in “Life at Crossroads”,
canvas in bright hues. With his artistic “Liberation” and “Kamala”, he pulverises
expression being at a point where astrology Astronomers and astrologers are often recognisable imagery. In a way he creates
and astronomy combine, works of daggers drawn. But Bengaluru-based a private ritual on canvas, whose transport
H.N.Suresh begin and depict an interesting reputed artist H.N.Suresh brings the has to be re-experienced by the viewer,
amalgamation of traditional scriptures disciplines of astronomy and astrology on getting swept into the flux of hurled paint
and scientific knowledge. Although the to a meeting ground. Actually with his and meaningful linear design.
medium for the paintings has been acrylic artistic vision and prowess, he transforms His gestures - carefully mixed colours -
on canvas, the artist has used objects like both into the realm of visual art. Set to have multiple meaning. Canvases like
grains, precious, semiprecious stones and engage the viewers in a visual dialogue, he “Senseless Nothings” and “The Mirage”
pearls, which enhance the quality of works. proceeds from the known to explore and show the range of his imagination and
The paintings also use rangoli patterns, substantiate the unknown. skill in projecting the idea in a sensitive
slokas and Indian and international manner. His firm, but rhythmic lines
symbols, which make them a visual treat. juxtaposed with cool hues have a harmony,
rarely seen in an artist of his age. Indeed,
118 he has something to say and he says it with
firmness and finality.

CONFLUENCE-forefront : Interview with Sri H.N.Suresn

H.N.Suresh, Director, Programmes & Projects, HNS: When I was going through the great deal of body is composed of Nakshatras. A human body is a
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bengaluru, is in the UK information available, strangely, many astrological composition of many stars. I create a new composition
and held an exhibition of his paintings at the Nehru and astronomical details tally. These days, scientists and set these stars in the exact position in the human
Centre, and the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, London. may not believe in astrology and astrologers may not figure as prescribed in the texts. I was not aware of
Unfolding the characteristics of the 27 stars that trust scientists. So we are in that sort of a situation. what the final outcome was going to be, but it was a
constitute a cosmography of 12 constellations in But here some elements do tally with the entirety in thrilling experience ! Here then is something I thought
our universe. Suresh explores in his mixed media perfect tandem. I should share with society and hence this exhibition
the creative possibilities of the stars. Specialising in is coming up in London and planned for other parts
creating colour fantasies, he projects a new dimension C: Can you give us an example to illustrate your of the world, too, dedicated to the revered memory of
to the nakshatras (stars) that tell us a lot more about point? my Guru, Dr. R.M. Hadapad, former principal, Ken
the heavenly bodies. HNS: The example is in colour. Colour is something School of Art, Bengaluru.
Confluence : Let's begin with an overview of your to which both astronomy and astrology say yes. That
work and mission? means somewhere, in ancient days, both astronomers C: Talking of art in general, it is said that European
H.N.Suresh : I have come up with a new series of and astrologers were one. As things developed, art moved into the modern era when the mid
paintings called Nakshatra Mandala - a cosmography possibly these two branches of studies got divided, nineteenth century saw the emergence of modern art
of constellations. In this series I try to bring out some and some of the things that astrologers said may not as we know it today. Do you see a similar evolution
aspects of astronomy, astrology and a vital aspect of have gone down comfortably with astronomers and of Indian art and has it arrived on the world stage ?
art. Life in a way is a story of conflict and the title they began pillorying each other. HNS: Indian art has already arrived - in fact we are
of your magazine suits my work very much, as I try Astrology is a science, it has some definite principles. advanced in many ways. So called modern art is
to bring about a confluence of all these elements. We human beings are made up of the five elements individualistic from the artist's point of view. There
I began as a sort of Sunday painter bringing out a and so there is a direct relationship with the lunar are certain things which artists like to convey to
series of paintings during my leisure. The last was a system and the cosmos. I don't think anyone can themselves and to society. It is a two way traffic.
series of literary works which was well received. To summarily dismiss the relationship we have with Perhaps in some compositions in the modern idiom,
me, paintings should have direct interaction with the the cosmos because we are part of nature itself. But bright colours are manifest. Except colours, there is
viewers - a rapport. This is very important. In this that is a different story. Where my creative work is nothing for you to see. Or there could be some lines or
series I think I have achieved that, because everyone, concerned, I try to bring it out in the acrylic medium, compositions and that's all the meaning it has.
whether connected with art or otherwise, relate to a very enjoyable for an artist. I thought it best to If you try to find more meaning than what you can
nakshatra which is a star. bring it out in the Mandala format. Mandala gives discern, you will be in difficulty. Now in saying
There are 27 nakshatras in our universe and in each of completeness, togetherness, power. The challenge for this, I am not casting any reflections on modern
my paintings I try to depict visually the conventional me was to feed the information of the stars into the art whatsoever. Modern art has a lot to give – only
composition of these nakshatras as set out in the Mandala format. that we must have the eye to discern. You must not
traditional jyotisha (science of celestial luminaries) Whatever the positioning astronomically, we know approach a modern work of art with the feeling that
texts. A viewer ought to contemplate on these several small stars go to make a big one – it can be you don't understand it. Then you are beaten from the
paintings before he can receive their intrinsic message. faithfully depicted in a painting and still work out the start. You look at the object but you do not understand
I am not here as an astrologer or astronomer to explain ancient literary material we have. All this fantastic it. You need to spend some time to try to get the
that. My business is to depict everything clearly on visualisation is available to an artist to put across. message the artist is trying to convey.
canvas in as authentic a manner as possible and leave There are some old texts that carry guidelines of In India too we have developed modern art to a
the rest to the viewer. A great deal of information is nakshatras, ràshis (the 12 signs of the zodiac) and great extent and some of the world's masters have
available to a painter on this subject and not many grahas (planets). By guidelines is meant formation collaborated with Indian painters. The only tragedy
have traversed this area. and information, not the effect as such. Nobody is that Indian art suffers from a lack of promotion and
Colours of the nakshatras and their direction are will tell you the effect correctly and they need not. sponsorship for its painters. Reputed painters have
defined in various Indian texts as are the colours of Whatever effect the stars have on an individual, it is ended their days without ever gaining recognition
the deities of each nakshatra. All creation in Indian for him or her to believe in it or not. of their work. The same goes for dancers and
science is said to result from a permutation and As a painter I have taken the subject and presented other artistes; they hardly receive the support they
combination of the Pancha Mahabhutas. All this has it faithfully. I don't go for interpretations as such. I deserve unlike in the West. India has made a great
been settled. thought of depicting the information available in a contribution to modern art, both in the form of
C: When you say "settled", you mean that coming colourful way so that we can work on the subject, paintings and sculptures and of course in graphic arts.
down the ages and through a process of evolution, think about it, and discuss. The ancient text Nakshatra In fact India was into graphic arts 4000 years ago with
this information has come to be accepted ? Purusha spells out the composite representation of all the West taking to it only now!
the stars as one whole, and signifies that our entire

119

Indian artist brings work to gallery H.N.Suresh, who has offered this Art, science, mystics, mythology are
rather unusual presentation, is a combined beautifully in depicting
• Rasmiliya Sporny, Reporter student of the veteran artist, the late the stars and zodiac.
Dr. R.M. Hadapad. He is a seasoned
Astrology, astronomy and art dominated the atrium of Smith Hall painter. – Justice Rajendra Babu,
yesterday, during a presentation of artwork by a guest from the other side He has specialized in creating Chairperson,
of the world. colour fantasies. This new series
The artist, H.N.Suresh, has displayed his collection of artwork in London of his depicts the characteristics of National Human Rights Commission
and New York Nakshatras (Stars); his new style,
Indian astrology, or Jyotisha, is the focal point for Suresh's work. Each simulating the decorative Mysore The works deal with profound
individual is born under a certain birth star that predetermines what the technique is fascinating. subjects. We can understand and
person's nature, fortune, career and character will be, Suresh said. It projects a new dimension to the appreciate it.
Indian astrology concentrates on movements and positioning of the sun Nakshatras as Mandalas. It tells a
and the moon in relation to the 12 signs of the zodiac, the planets and 27 lot more about the heavenly bodies. – Justice M.N. Venkatachalaiah,
stars. The approach has been refreshingly Former Chief Justice of India
"Somewhere in the subconscious level, every human being irrespective of holistic, artistic, and novel.
country or color are cast, they are infatuated in stars," Suresh said. India has made tremendous
Suresh said he drew a rendition of each constellation to give a visual image – Prof. S.K. Ramachandra Rao, contribution to the field of
to each constellation. Scholar astrophysics and Suresh’s knowledge
"I know it is difficult for people to comprehend, but I wanted to make an of science, art and astrophysics is
attempt," Suresh said. "In India especially, interaction with this sort of A very interesting and educative commendable.
subject is very high." art exhibition. Mr. Suresh has
Each one of his pieces is composed of a central human-like figure concretized his comprehension of the – Mrs. Sudha Murty,
contained in a sphere with different symbols that represent the person's Navgrahas in a very innovative way. Chairperson, Infosys Foundation
characteristics. The sphere represents continuation and the symbols
represent the five elements (sky, air, water, fire and earth) are also included – Dr. Kapila Vatsayan, The exhibition is amazing and
in each piece. Art Historian, New Delhi unique to watch, feel and understand
Several students said they liked the art because it is very unusual. the integrated vision of astrology
Valene Adkins, a graduate history major from Williamson, said she like H.N.Suresh is a painter of distinction and astronomy, eastern and western
Suresh's use of vivid colour and thought there should be more artists like and discernment. In his work, he perspectives. Thanks for the
him brought to campus. seeks to reconcile the rich traditions opportunity.
"I think the university should bring but a lot more cultural art of Asian of Indian iconography and painting
art," Adkins said. "I think that exposure to other cultures is very good for with modern media; acrylic on – Dr. P. Jayaraman,
students and faculty." canvas. Director,
Ian McQuinn, a business administration graduate student, said he liked the The wealth of colour, detail and
amount of detail in each painting. information combine in an almost Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New York
"There are so many different aspects to it and you can just take your time," surreal position in Suresh’s splendid
McQuinn said. "He uses so much colour and it's not like you're just looking paintings, all paintings to his
at a landscape picture or something." skill and commitment. I warmly
commend his work.

– Dr. John R. Marr,
Indologist & Art Critic, London

120

New paintings of H.N.Suresh: There are 27 individual portraits and one nakshatra purusha, which
A colourful evening with the stars according to him is "a composite visualization of one human form
(purusha) in which all the (27 nitya) nakshatras are incorporated. The
•G.T. Narayana Rao •'Star of Mysore': 25th October, 2005 purusha is Vishnu, the all-pervasive divinity." In these paintings a
discerning eye can see the splendour of colours elegantly blended
Everyone is familiar with the baby rhyme… with mythological metaphors. Indeed a very inspiring and motivating
Twinkle, twinkle little star! experience to go through them and visualize the original painting of
How I wonder what you are, the Creator.
Up above the world so high, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mysore, has done well in arranging
Like a diamond in the sky! an exhibition of Suresh's paintings at the Suchitra Art Gallery of
But I wonder how many of us have cared to look at them, recognize Kalamandira, Mysore. Inaugurated on October 24, it will remain open
the hidden patterns, ponder over their origin and correlate those forms till the 28th , each day from morning 10 to evening 6. Free admission.
with our own lives? A few astronomers and astrologers all over the Nakshatra-Mandala (Cosmograph of Constellations) by H.N.Suresh
globe and at all times have done it. Thus astronomy is rightly called is a useful companion guide for study. A Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan
the mother of sciences. publication (2004). Price Rs.25. This pocket book contains all the
The night sky has inspired a myriad of poets, painters, dramatists and paintings explained above together with relevant notes in English and
such other men of creativity. Shakespeare has sung the glory of the Sanskrit. "It projects a new dimension to the nakshatras as mandalas.
heavens thus… It tells a lot more about the heavenly bodies. The approach has been
If I could write the beauty of your eyes refreshingly holistic, artistic and novel" writes S.K. Ramachandra Rao
And in fresh numbers number all your graces, in his introduction to this book. A video disc with verbal explanations
The age to come would say in English plus the chanting of the appropriate mantras is also available
"This poet lies; Such heavenly touches never touched earthly faces." with the Bhavan.
Why 27 stars only? An astronomer watching the moon's eternal Prof. G.T. Narayana Rao, is an astronomer and art critic.
glide on the fixed stellar curtain deduces that in about 27 days' time
this 'second eye' of the Creator (the first eye being, of course, the sun)
completes one revolution around us in the west-east direction. The
track (called the lunar obit) remains the same. Hence he concentrated
his attention on the prominent stars along it. These are the 27 stars,
Ashvini through Revati. They are called the nitya nakshatras (the moon's
daily mansions). It does not mean that there are actually 27 travellers'
bungalows on the lunar orbit! But that's what we see.
Starlore and Paintings: Over the ages, and in all civilizations, starlore
(akin to folklore) few around them. This has inspired quite a number
of poets, painters and others to weave their imaginations around the
nitya nakshatras.
H.N.Suresh of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan is one such enterprising
painter. He has gone into the astronomical, astrological, traditional and
mythological aspects of them and given free expression to his creativity
through appropriate hues.

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www.hnsuresh.com Positions Held by the Artist: Present Positions: Awards:
• Chairman - Youth Writers and Artists • Director - Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, • Several cultural organisations of repute

Guild Bengaluru have bestowed prizes, awards and
• Co-Chairman - EFCEP, a joint venture to • Vice-Chairman - Bengaluru Art Circle offered felicitations in recognition of his
• Trustee: Dr. Veena Doreswamy Iyengar talent and the contributions made to
promote performing arts by the Indian performing and visual arts, including the
Council for Cultural Relations and the Memorial Trust Karnataka Sangeetha Nrithya Academy
Guild • Trustee: International Gita Foundation Award (Karnataka Kalashree - 1998).
• Member - Karnataka Sangeeta Nritya • The International Gita Foundation
Academy Trust Trust presented Tamrapatra (2003) in
• Member - Organising Committee • Member - Advisory Council, Indian recognition of culture promotion and
SAARC Cultural Festivals social work
• Member - Organising Committee Council for Cultural Relations, Ministry • The Hindu Temple Society of North
Russian Festival in India of External Affairs, Govt. of India America (New York) honoured him in
• Advisor - Karnataka Nrityakala • Vice-President - B.V.S. Sangha, Bengaluru 2004
Parishath • Member - Managing Committee, Nupura • Karnataka State Lalithakala Academy
• Member - Fine Art Films Festival, School of Bharatanatyam Award (2006)
Directorate of Field Publicity, Govt. of • Member - Ken School of Art, Bengaluru • Karnataka Kala Shree Award by
India • Member - Governing Council, Natya Sri D. Subbaramaiah Fine Arts Trust
• Member - Resource Panel (Faculty of Institute of Kathak & Choreography • Sri Raghavendra Sadbhavana and
Fine Arts), NCERT, New Delhi • Trustee, Ananya - a noted cultural Aryabhata International Award 2014 by
• Member - Karnataka Lalithakala organisation of Karnataka Aryabhata Cultural Academy
Academy • SAMA PURASKAR 2017 Award
• Editor - Publications Division, Karnataka Art Criticism:
Lalithakala Academy • Regular art reviews published in Indian General:
• Joint Secretary - Crafts Council • Scripted and presented four telefilms
Karnataka Express and Kannada Prabha since 1975
• Member - Managing Committee, for Bengaluru Doordarshan, titled
Karnataka Shilpakala Parishath Publications: Karnataka Traditional Paintings, Temple
• Co-opted Member - Karnataka Sangeetha • Edited Naada Nrithya, a monthly Chariots, Life of a Traditional Painter
Nrithya Academy and Dance Couple, telecast on the
• Editor - Publications Karnataka magazine of the Karnataka Sangeetha national network
Sangeetha Nrithya Academy Nrithya Academy since 1987 • All India Radio & Doordarshan have
• Member - Kanaka Purandara Award • Edited over 25 books for Karnataka broadcast several talks and features on
Committee, Govt. of Karnataka Lalithakala Academy on art and artists dance, music, sculpture, paintings, etc.
• Member - Shantala Award Committee, of Karnataka and on musicians and • Voice of America Radio interview at
Govt. of Karnataka dancers for Karnataka Sangeetha Nrithya Washington (2004) on art and culture
• Advisor - Publications, Directorate of Academy • Participated in conferences/workshops/
Youth Services and Sports, • Edited and published several felicitation seminars and presented papers
Govt. of Karnataka volumes on prominent artists of on various topics connected with
Karnataka performing and visual arts
• Invited by South Central Zone Cultural
Centre, Nagpur, to talk at Art Critics
Workshop at Hyderabad (1997)
• Edited a book on noted sculptor
D. Vadiraj, published by Karnataka
Lalithakala Academy

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vignettes

123

H.N.Suresh being conferred the Exhibition at India International Centre, New Delhi,
Karnataka Sangeeta Nritya Academy Award being inaugurated by Sri T.N. Chaturvedi, former Governor of

Karnataka in the presence of Justice Rajendra Babu,
former Chief Justice of India, Er. N. Ramanuja, Chairman-BVB,

Bengaluru, Prof. Sundar, Director-BVB, New Delhi

Suresh receiving the Karnataka Lalithakala Academy Award 'Shree Chakra' painting being gifted to
Alliance De Francaise Chandigarh
124

Distinguished guests at the exhibition at Nehru Centre, London H.N.Suresh greeting Sri L.K. Advani, eminent parliamentarian

Dr. Sudha Murty, Chairperson, Infosys Foundation, H.N.Suresh being interviewed by Voice of America
going through the Navagraha Mandala Exhibition;
also seen are Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah, former Chief Justice of 125
India, Er. N. Ramanuja, Chairman BVB, Bengaluru

Suresh being honoured by Sri T.N. Chaturvedi, The artist greeted by Keith Spears, Vice-President of
Former Governor of Karnataka and Prof. Sundar, Director, BVB, Communications & Marketing, Marshall University,
West Virginia, USA alongwith Prof. Ramachandra Akkihal,
New Delhi, at India International Centre, New Delhi
Director, Marshall University

Sri Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wodeyar the scion of ººroyal Suresh being honoured by Smt. Leeladevi R. Prasad,
family of Mysuru at the exhibition at London former Minister for Culture, Govt. of Karnataka

126

H.N.Suresh presenting a catalogue of Rashi Mandala to Dr. B.M. Hegde, Renowned Physician viewing the painting
Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, Suttur exhibition of H.N.Suresh held at London

Parmapujya Sri Sri Sri Jayendrapuri Mahaswamiji, H.N.Suresh
Peethadhipathi of Sri Kailas Ashrama Mahasamsthana, giving the final
touch to the mural
Rajarajeshwarinagar, Bengaluru, viewing the at Bhavan’s
Ashtadikpalaka painting with Suresh Mysore Kendra

127

H.N.Suresh working on the bust of H.N.Suresh receiving the Aryabhata Award – 2014
Sri M.P.L. Shastry

Painting exhibition of H.N.Suresh’s Nakshatra Mandala, H.N.Suresh being honoured by Justice Rajendra Babu, former
Navagraha Mandala & Rashi Mandala as the inaugural show at the newly Chief Justice of India. Also seen Sri T.N. Chaturvedi, former

constructed Abanindranath Tagore Gallery, Kolkatta Governor of Karnataka

128

Launching of Navagraha Mandala Catalogue, from left Sri S.G. Vasudev, H.N.Suresh being honoured with
Sri Mathoor Krishnamurti, Dr. Sudha Murty, Er. N. Ramanuja, Yuvaranga award by Sri Muddukrishna

Sri A. Krishna Murthy, Justice M.N Venkatachalaiah and H.N.Suresh

H.N.Suresh being honoured by Sri I.M. Vittala Murthy at Nupura School of After inaugurating
Bharatanatyam the exhibition
Sri T.N. Chaturvedi,
Governor of
Karnataka going
through the
Navagraha Mandala
paintings

129

Artist H.N.Suresh Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, Suttur Mutt,
Inaugurating the Mural at Bhavan's Mysore Kendra

H.N.Suresh being honoured with SAMA PURASKAR – 2017

130

Soubhagya Mandala: Acrylic on canvas • 60 cms X 60 cms

131

Mount Kailash: Acrylic on canvas • 100 cms X 70 cms • 2007
Painting of Mount Kailash with Manasa Sarovar in the foreground by H.N.Suresh, inspired after his visit to the
sacred lake in 2007. The fine sand collected from the banks of the holy Sarovar is mixed in the acrylic on canvas.

132

Mathangi: Acrylic on Canvas • 100 cms X 70 cms
Mathangi is considered as one of the ten principal goddesses.
She is, in fact, a widely worshipped folk-deity in many parts of the country.

133

Yantrodharaka Hanuman: Acrylic on canvas • 60 cms X 60 cms

134

Spring: Acrylic on canvas • 122 cms X 122 cms

135

Untitled: Acrylic on canvas • 90 cms X 90cms

136

More Than I Could Have Asked For...... My colleagues at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan at Bengaluru and all
over India have undertaken the task of organizing exhibitions
Public goodwill is a permanent earning that is a lifetime effort, instilling in one connected with these paintings. Equally responsible are
deep-felt satisfaction and humility at the same time. It is this benevolence that organisations like Alliance De Francaise Chandigarh, Max Muller
has given me stability and a sense of belonging in my life. Bhavan, India International, BVB-Chennai kendra, Soorya
It has been a long-standing suggestion of many a well-wisher in the art Festivalº–– 2010, Thiruvantapuram, ICCR-Kolkata, Nehru Centre-
fraternity, the media and bureaucrats that a coffee-table book on my paintings UK, Marshall University-USA and others who have collaborated
be brought out. Yet the lack of conviction of having achieved anything worthy of with me in this journey.
documentation, held me back. There are many who made this venture a memorable one.
There has been much written about my chequered career whose spring well has Words are inadequate to acknowledge their contribution.
been art in all its manifestations. Television and radio programmes, DVDs, My heartfelt thanks to all those whose names I have not mentioned
CDs, brochures and folders have substantially brought into public domain, both here.
in India and abroad, my forays in painting, journalism and allied art fields. This
was more than I could have asked for, for my humble body of work. H.N.Suresh
Yet I had to finally relent to the persuasive ways of Sri N. Ramanuja, Chairman,
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bengaluru Kendra, and MPBIM, to bring out a coffee DVDs of the
table book on my paintings. exhibitions, exhibits,
I would like to specially express my gratitude to Jyothi Raghuram, who has reviews from persons
written for, compiled, and edited this work as if it were her own. of eminence and the
I will be failing in my duty if I do not acknowledge my mentors - artist’s description
R.M. Hadapad, Prof. S.K. Ramachandra Rao and many other scholars, of his own work are
scientists, astrologers and others who provided me with all necessary inputs available on request.
on a wide range of subjects on constellations; the M.P. Birla Institute of
Management, particularly Sri N. Ramanuja, Chairman, for taking keen interest
not only in the publication of this coffee table book but also ensuring that I create
my art works.
He ensured that these works were exhibited across India and abroad to get
recognition from all around.
I am grateful to Prof. K.L. Ramadas, Sri Sudhindra Gargesa, and my other
friends in MPBIM & MPBIFR who have tirelessly supported me in the
documentation and publication work.
Rajaram of M/s. Canvas, Madhusudhan of M/s. O.S. Prints and Jyothi
Raghuram have lent full support with design, editing and preparation work of
this book which has come out aesthetically, thanks to their sincere efforts. Credit
goes to Omkar Offset Printers, Bengaluru, for bringing out this book on time.

137

Sponsored by:

MMPPBBIIMM

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan’s

M.P. BIRLA INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT
No. 43, Race Course Road, Bengaluru 560 001, India.
•Ph: +91-80-4277 2000