Krishna – which translates as the Dark One or the Black One – is one of the most popular and multiform divinities of Hinduism. Recognizable from his dark-blue skin colour, and frequently shown playing a flute, Krishna has been inspiring people all over the world as a divine hero, spiritual lover and wise teacher.
With over 100 objects from the museum’s inventory – including historical sculptures, paintings and ritual objects – the special exhibition looks at the iconographic, regional and media diversity of Krishna representations.
The starting point of the exhibition is Krishna’s life story, with impactful descriptions of the most important episodes. The focus then shifts to religious practice – ranging from everyday worship at home to major festivals such as Janmashtami (the birth of Krishna) and the Holi Festival of Colours. The final part of the exhibition shows Krishna in global pop culture.
The exhibits originate from various epochs, regions and contexts and extend from historical objects to contemporary forms of expression. They include a magnificent swing and a portable folding altar as well as popular poster prints and contemporary figures. Five precious, large-format religious wall hangings (pichwais) are a particular highlight.
Objects are deliberately juxtaposed to illustrate the consistency as well as the changes and shifts of meaning in religious and cultural understanding.
Some of the works are being presented to the public for the first time. The exhibition was created in cooperation with the Center for Religious Studies (CERES) of the Ruhr University Bochum. We would also like to thank the Friends of the Museum Fünf Kontinente.
Catalogue about the exhibition
The exhibition Krishna. Religion, Art and Pop Culture is accompanied by a catalogue in German.
Events accompanying the special exhibition
Guided tours with the curator Anne Hartig Ph.D./J.N. Univ. New Delhi will take place on the following Sundays at 2pm: 3.5.26, 14.6.26, 2.8.26, 11.10.26, 8.11.26. A guided tour with the curator Dr Patrick Felix Krüger will take place on 10.5.26. Places are limited. Please register at kunstvermittlung@mfk-weltoffen.de.
These and more events accompanying the special exhibition can be found in the programme section.