Lithograph by Sasadhar Banarjee
Region / Date
Kolkata (Calcutta), West Bengal, India
ca. 1875–1885
Tantric Mahavidya print tradition
Key Features
This rare and deeply symbolic lithograph presents Dhumavati, one of the Ten Mahavidyas-the wisdom goddesses of Tantric Hinduism. Known as “the Smoky One,” Dhumavati represents the void, dissolution, and the hidden truths found in loss, decay, and silence.
Unlike most divine forms, Dhumavati is depicted as an aged widow, with disheveled hair and austere clothing-stripped of ornamentation and worldly beauty. This unconventional imagery is intentional: she embodies the reality beyond illusion, where attachment, ego, and desire are burned away.
She holds a winnowing basket, a powerful metaphor. Just as grain is separated from chaff, Dhumavati represents the discernment between truth and illusion, guiding seekers toward spiritual clarity.
Her presence is associated with Chaturmas, the monsoon months traditionally considered inauspicious for celebrations. In this period of stillness and inward focus, Dhumavati’s energy becomes especially significant-inviting reflection, withdrawal, and transformation.
In this composition, she is uniquely enthroned upon a towering temple-car structure, reminiscent of Bengal’s later medieval temple architecture. This elevates her from a marginal figure to a cosmic force presiding over existence itself, even in its most desolate forms.
Around her, crows circle in the sky-her traditional vahana (vehicle). In Tantric symbolism, the crow represents time, death, and ancestral knowledge, reinforcing her connection to the unseen and the eternal.
Despite her association with inauspiciousness, Dhumavati is not malevolent. She is the protector of those who have nothing left to lose, the शक्ति that emerges when all illusions collapse. Devotees seek her blessings to overcome adversity, defeat enemies, and transcend suffering.
Stylistically, the artwork reflects the Bengal lithographic tradition-subtle hand-coloring, architectural detailing, and a blend of devotional and narrative elements. The muted palette enhances her stark, introspective presence, aligning perfectly with her philosophical essence.
Museum-Grade Poster Details
Size: 18 × 24 inches
Paper: 350 GSM archival matte paper
Print Quality: High-resolution reproduction preserving original lithographic textures and hand-coloring
Finish: Non-glare museum matte finish
Ideal For: Tantra practitioners, spiritual seekers, collectors of Mahavidya art, and contemplative spaces
Why You’ll Love It
This is a rare depiction of Dhumavati-one of the most misunderstood yet profound forms of the Divine Feminine, representing truth beyond illusion.
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Bring home the transformative presence of Goddess Dhumavati, the शक्ति of emptiness, wisdom, and ultimate liberation.
Available in 18 × 24 inches, with framed and unframed options, exclusively at The Soma Store.
