This extraordinary charcoal rendering by Mumbiram is one of the prime examples of Rasa Renaissance Art. The artist and his muses have a real life friendship that is reflected in their art.
Here Kusum is making chapattis – Indian flat bread. Her mate is keeping her company by reading to her from a book – most likely his own composition.

Making the chapattis is one of the humdrum chores in every Indian woman’s daily routine. The magical touch of a rasik artist has given it the spin to make it a juicy memorable loving experience. The consummate skill of the artist is so mature that it has taken a back seat and let the drama of the situation take center-stage.

There is no unnecessary detail. The lines are minimal, nearly perfect. Everything has a purpose and a meaning. The Hibiscuses, the Moon, the revered Tulasi plant and the peacock are ‘alambana’ objects that create the atmosphere conducive to the emotions (rasa) being expressed.

The artist’s great skill in showing fine facial expressions is evident in this masterpiece. The expression on Kusum’s face has been captured very wonderfully. It shows she is listening,
even amused. Look at these delicate, yet strong fingers. With her right hand she is pressing the chapatti on the hot stove to see if it is properly baked. The artist has accurately captured that familiar detail in the chapatti making activity. Kusum is sitting in a comfortable position on the floor while her mate is keeping his right arm on her thigh.

It is obvious that Mumbiram is full of admiration for this sublime ritual of making chapattis.We know he has been closely observing his muses engaged in this ritual. Mumbiram and his muses have been close friends. They often made chapattis for him, either in their homes or in Mumbiram’s studio.

Mumbiram sees art as the great equalizer. Romance of Rasa Art is universal. It enriches human life.

This charcoal rendering has been included in an anthology of Mumbiram’s other charcoal renderings depicting loving couples sharing their book reading experience. This anthology is titled ‘Book Readers, Love on the Gutenberg Galaxy’.