End of An Era 

Jahar Dasgupta made this painting, called 'End of An Era', using an earthy palette to depict a scene loaded with symbolism. It's a powerful statement on societal transitions. The figures, rendered in an almost fragmented style, suggest a community in distress. The central figure, bent over backward, might represent the immense pressure of change, a bridge between a receding past and an uncertain future. On one side, a line of figures seems to be departing, while on the other, a crowd looks on, perhaps representing those left behind or those witnessing the change. Painted in India, a nation with a rich history of social and political transformation, this work echoes the struggles and resilience of communities facing the end of familiar ways of life. It invites us to consider how societies grapple with change and who bears the weight of progress. As historians, we might delve into the social and political context of India during Dasgupta's time to uncover deeper meanings behind this evocative image.