Indian Street Scenes in Watercolor
My sketchbook is a visual diary of India’s lanes. From the quiet morning rhythm of a chai stall to the ancient architecture of Banaras, I paint the scenes that capture our home's true character.
Marketplaces are full of life and character. This video shows the creation of a watercolor painting of a 'sabzi mandi' (vegetable market) scene from my visit to Pondicherry, capturing a vendor taking a moment to pose.
The lanes of Banaras are a mystery I love to unfold. This watercolor captures a corner I found, with its beautiful vintage architecture and the quintessentially Indian 'S.K. HOTEL' sign.
Varanasi is a vibe I can't get enough of. This watercolor of the ghats captures the chaotic beauty of the boats, the ancient buildings, and the steps leading down to the holy river.
My love for old doors and 'purani haveli' (old mansions) is endless. This watercolor sketch captures the quiet dignity of a weathered, arched doorway, hinting at the stories held within.
The architecture of Chettinad houses is a story in itself. This watercolor illustration is based on a photo from my trip to Karaikudi, capturing the intricate details of these palatial homes.
A watercolor painting capturing a sunny afternoon scene in a quiet lane. The contrast of the old building, the closed shops, and the parked auto-rickshaw tells a story of everyday life.
My love for old world charm is a recurring theme in my art. This watercolor of a vintage house with a small street-side stall is a perfect example of the subjects that are close to my heart.
I've always wanted to paint the mystery of silent, dark lanes at night. This watercolor captures that feeling, with a lone figure walking and a dog playing in the light, creating a sense of quiet drama.
The streets leading to a temple are always fascinating. This large watercolor captures the vibrant chaos of a temple street, with its shops, devotees, and the ever-present auto-rickshaw.
A cow resting against a colorful, hand-painted wall is such a common yet beautiful sight in India. This watercolor painting captures that slice of life, with the textures of the wall and the calm animal.
About Glimpses of India: Streets and Stories
I paint these scenes using professional-grade Mijello Mission watercolors on 300 GSM Arches cotton paper. This specific paper and paint combination is chosen because it allows the pigment to settle into the texture, perfectly mimicking the dusty, golden light of a real Indian afternoon that I try to capture in every piece.
When I am out walking, whether in the busy markets of Pondicherry or the narrow lanes of Banaras, I am always looking for the stories hiding in plain sight. It might be a vintage auto-rickshaw parked under a banyan tree, the specific weathering on an old wooden door, or the steam rising from a street-side chai stall. These aren't just buildings or objects to me; they are the memories of a place.
My process usually starts with quick sketches while I am on the move, capturing the raw energy of the street. Back in my studio, I translate these into final watercolor paintings. I often use gouache highlights to add depth to these heritage structures, making sure the architectural details pop against the atmospheric washes.
I treat every commission as a collaboration. If you have a specific location, a childhood home, or a favourite street corner that holds a special place in your heart, I can turn that memory into an archival-quality painting. Because I work with professional cotton rag paper, these pieces are made to last for generations on your wall.
We can discuss dimensions ranging from A5 studies to larger A3 heritage series pieces, depending on where you want the art to live in your home. I ensure every piece is packed with rigid support to reach you safely anywhere in India.
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