Who Are The Dashavatars? - Student Story
by Aadya Bommineni, Ardhana Praveen, and Shriya Shaji
This month, we are thrilled to share youth artist Druthi Nandigam’s connection with the avatars of Vishnu!
Student Story: Druthi’s Artistic Journey and The Dashavatars
“The Dashavataras have always fascinated me, not just as divine stories but as reflections of how the world evolves and responds to challenges. Each avatar of Vishnu represents a different phase of cosmic balance, from the calm wisdom of Vamana to the fierce protection of Narasimha. These stories feel timeless, carrying lessons that are still relevant today.
I explored them more deeply during an art project centered around Madhubani painting. As I created each piece, I began to feel more connected to the meanings behind the forms. Painting Matsya swimming through the floodwaters or Krishna guiding Arjuna in the battlefield helped me understand the symbolism behind each incarnation of Vishnu.
Later, I presented my artwork in class, using visuals to explain how each avatar represents a response to a specific moral or spiritual crisis in the world. Sharing this with others helped me realize that cultural stories can be powerful tools for discussion and learning.
The Dashavataras feel like more than mythology. They are a reminder that transformation is constant, and that wisdom often arrives in unexpected forms.”
By Druthi Raga Nandigam
Bothell High School
11th Grade
