Mumbai, August 14, 2025: As Krishna Janmashtami and the Independence Day are falling on the same day this year, a compilation by Shri Jayesh Rathod titled ‘Krishna’s Freedom Talks’ was unveiled to spread the message of ‘real freedom’ to the people. A booklet was launched on the eve of Janmashtami in a unique Janmashtami and Independence Day celebrations held at Shri Rathod’s residence in Juhu in Mumbai.
To observe the auspicious day of Janmashtami, a splendid painting of Lord Shreenath ji painted by a Durban – based young artist of Indian – origin Vishal Mothillal was also unveiled. Known for his penchant to portray distinctive paintings of Indian Gods and Goddesses, the painting of Lord Shreenath ji brought a grace to the event.
‘Krishna’s Freedom Talks’ brought together select verses from Bhagwad Geeta that teach various forms of ‘Renunciations’ or ‘Sacrifices’ one should make to get a real freedom, which is must for every Indian, if he wants to stand as one nation and do a good to the whole mankind.
Talking about the novel concept, *Shri Jayesh Rathod, an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna* said, _“As the Independence Day is observed to celebrate and cherish the freedom that the country got from the clutches of a foreign rule, Janmashtami on the contrary, celebrates the liberation or freedom the Lord Krishna taught us through his teachings in epic Bhagwad Geeta. I have tried to depict this contrast and taken an opportunity to create awareness among the people about the true essence and meaning of ‘freedom’, ‘independence’ or ‘liberation’, by portraying the ‘freedom’ verses of Bhagwad Geeta”._
*Presenting the painting of Lord Shreenathji, Vishal Mothillal* said, _“As an artist, I am deeply fascinated by the rich Hindu culture I belong to. Growing up in South Africa, I developed a strong connection to Hindu scriptures and deities. On this day of Janmashtami, I took this privilege to portray Lord Shreenath ji to reveal the teachings of Lord Krishna. My paintings are expressions of my imagination, aiming to convey a spiritual message and inspire a purposeful life.”_
Born in Durban to a family of Indian origin with ancestral roots in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, Vishal’s family has been settled in South Africa for three generations. Vishal’s journey as an artist began at the age of four, driven by his deep connection to Hindu culture and spirituality. Despite not receiving formal training, his natural talent flourished. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from the Durban University of Technology, he continued his passion for devotional paintings alongside his profession.
Vishal’s portraits of Shiv Parvati, Sri Srinathji, Lord Krishna, Goddess Lakshmi & Saraswati, Maa Durga, and Sita are notable for their calm and benign expressions. For instance, he has depicted Goddess Durga slaying the demon Mahishasur, not in the usual angry avatar, but with a serene demeanor.