A folio from an Usha-Aniruddha romance series, Garwhal, circa 1840

European Private Collection

Usha, daughter of Vana, King of the Daityas had a dream of a wonderfully handsome prince with whom she instantly fell in love. Chitralekha, Usha’s friend, aided her in drawing portraits of all the princes until Usha recognized Aniruddha, grandson of Krishna. At her behest Chitralekha proceeds to Dwarka to bring Aniruddha back to Usha’s kingdom.

Here we see Usha coming upon Aniruddha in his princely chamber and after awakening he explains that he too has had a similar dream of a beautiful princess and accompanies Chitralekha to Usha. A great battle ensues because of the dream-crossed lovers.