At the heart of this vibrant and beautifully symmetrical mandala design, sits an elephant - the Gajaraj. Due to their rarity and the significant resources required to own them, elephants became powerful symbols of royalty, strength, and prestige for kings and ruling elites in India. The association of elephants with water and their white color connects them to rain, clouds, and auspiciousness, making it an apt central figure among with the surreal fishes in my mandala. 

Radiating outward from the center, four graceful fishes swim on each side of the mandala, creating a balanced and rhythmic composition. In Madhubani art, fishes are considered symbols of good luck, fertility, and abundance. Their movement represents the flow of life and prosperity, perfectly complementing the Gajaraj's presence at the core.

The entire artwork is brought to life using a cool palette of blue, green, and purple, giving the piece a calming and mystical underwater feel.

This is my first canvas project, and while it was challenging, I loved making it.