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Krishna as Kali worshipped by Radha (recto), from a Kalighat album

c. 1890
Gum tempera, graphite, and ink on paper

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In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland · as of July 2026

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FROM THE CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART’S CATALOG

Krishna’s cowgirl ( gopi ) Radha was Ayanaghosha’s wife, and her devotion to him transcended marital ties. Whenever Radha was together with Krishna and her husband appeared, Krishna instantly transformed himself into Kali and Radha into her devotee. Radha, a model devotee, symbolizes the human soul and its longing for god. Her willingness to break the rules of duty ( dharma ) exemplifies her devotion.

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