Akshar

Raj Dongre
Enamel paint on CR metal sheet, 17” x 12.5”, €150

The boldly and stylishly written initial of the truck owner safeguarded by Punjab's state bird—the Northern Goshawk (baj or baaz in Punjabi)—and the holy Sikh symbol for ‘God is One,’ have become an identity for many North Indian trucks. The majestic bird in the portraits of Guru Gobind Singhji, the tenth Sikh guru, is also a symbol of strength, speed, and tenacity.

Curator’s Note: Sikhism is one of India’s religions alongside Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Founder Guru Nanak describes its philosophy simply: Truth is the highest virtue, but higher still is truthful living.