This painting tells a two-fold story. A young woman stepping in slowly with a burning lamp late in the evening to say a prayer of tribute to this holy place. She prayed here that when her wishes are fulfilled, she would come and burn a lamp of ghee (melted butter). In the background a man is also meditating for his fortune waiting for a positive message - A superstitious ritual or reality I wonder.
The artist has captured masterfully the mood and gestures of the young woman. One can see the artist is in full command of his subject and composition.
Every Thursday before dark he comes and sings the same ritual songs and plays the same melody. His stay is usually very short. I must hurry and give him some flour before he departs further. His songs are melancholy but they sooth my soul and reminds me of my beloved ones. I wait to listen to his mellow songs week after week and the melody penetrates through my heart and soul which takes me to a wonderful romantic world. He hardly talks, but his gestures are kind and affectionate. It seems he knows what I am going through day after day though he never lifts his eyes to see towards me.
Spring time has come again and your arrival is still unknown. Mongolian tree is at full bloom and bending twigs of flowers is waiting to welcome you. Summer, and Autumn has come and gone without you being here.
Fragrance of blue rose and my diary takes my thoughts to you, O my beloved one. I remember and imagine our courtship and the time we spent together this summer. Short autumn afternoons are announcing the long winter nights. Flowers are singing me your approaching songs. I hear your footsteps coming closer towards me. Don’t let me wait too long my sweetheart and don’t let this burning lamp cool down before your arrival. I am burning like the moths over this lamp.