"The Birth of Shakuntala," also known as "Shakuntala Janm," captures the immediate aftermath of Shakuntala's birth. In the scene, Menaka, devoid of maternal affection, confronts Vishwamitra with their newborn daughter, explicitly disavowing any responsibility for the child's future. Vishwamitra, in turn, rejects the child, leaving her potentially abandoned in the forest. This painting holds historical significance as it served as the prototype for the first chromolithograph produced at the Ravi Varma Fine Art Lithographic Press. Titled "Birth of Sakoontala," this oleograph was first published on July 12, 1894, marking a milestone in the dissemination of Raja Ravi Varma's artworks to a wider audience. The portrayal of this pivotal moment in Hindu mythology not only showcases Ravi Varma's artistic finesse but also underscores his influence in popularizing Indian mythological narratives through the medium of chromolithography. The painting's reproduction as an oleograph ensured its accessibility and widespread appreciation, cementing Raja Ravi Varma's legacy as a pioneer in bringing Indian cultural heritage to the forefront of artistic expression.
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