MUMBAI, 26 OCTOBER, 2024 (APN): An artist is inherently driven by passion. Through the colors on their palette and the strokes of their brush, an artist channels their deepest emotions onto the canvas. Such is the story of Poonam Rathi, a painter whose life is a testament to resilience and dedication to her art. From a young age, under the inspiring guidance of her father, Poonam cultivated a profound love for painting—a love so intense that it only grew with her over the years. As the saying goes, “the future shows in a child’s first steps,” and indeed, Poonam’s journey in art began early, with a natural flair and fascination for drawing and painting that flourished through her teenage years. They say that destiny has its own timing, and sometimes, dreams need a little patience. Poonam’s life took a different course after marriage. In the whirl of household duties, her artistic aspirations began to fade as she devoted herself entirely to her family. Yet, just as her father once encouraged her passion for art, her husband, Nandkishore Rathi, recognized that same spark within her. With unwavering support, he encouraged Poonam to return to her world of colors and canvas, to once again pick up the brush and paint her dreams. When immersed in her art, Poonam wanders a dreamscape, observing, feeling, and capturing beauty through her sketches. Like a sculptor who brings divine forms to life from mere clay, Poonam’s work radiates a spiritual essence. Her sketches of Lord Ganesha and Lord Vitthal are so vivid and intricately detailed that one feels as if in the divine presence itself. Her mastery isn’t limited to sketches; her works in acrylics and watercolors are equally captivating, inviting viewers into her world and offering a moment of peace and introspection.
Poonam’s artistic talents extend beyond painting; she is also an accomplished poet. Her poems reflect her deep sensitivity to society and her thoughtful engagement with the world around her. After her family life settled, Nandkishore, her husband, inspired her to return to her artistic roots. With his encouragement, Poonam reignited her passion, and after years away from her art, her pencils and brushes once again started breathing life onto the canvas. She began studying advanced painting techniques under the guidance of renowned artist Sadashiv Sawant, refining her skills and creating even more nuanced and moving pieces. One day, Poonam and Nandkishore decided it was time for her art to reach a wider audience. They envisioned an exhibition at Nesco Grounds to showcase her works. Nandkishore, ever the supportive husband, meticulously planned every detail to make the exhibition a reality. After months of hard work and preparation, everything was ready. However, just five days before the exhibition, their daughter, Rinal, was suddenly admitted to the ICU due to a health emergency. Despite this emotional storm, Poonam remained steadfast, embodying the spirit of resilience and the phrase “the show must go on.” With Nandkishore by her side, she balanced her duties as a mother and an artist, ultimately deciding to move forward with the exhibition.
On October 25-27, 2024, at Nesco Ground in Goregaon, Poonam Rathi’s art found its place in the exhibition. Her resilience and spirit shone brightly, and her art deeply moved those who visited. On the very first day, two of her paintings sold, a testament to her talent and dedication. True to her compassionate nature, Poonam and Nandkishore decided that the proceeds from these sales would be donated to an institution for children with special needs in Mumbai. Poonam’s vision doesn’t end here; she is now determined to hold a solo exhibition in Mumbai, aiming to share her art even more widely and inspire others with her story. In Poonam’s journey, one sees the timeless truth that passion and dedication can withstand all odds. Through her art, Poonam not only expresses her creativity but also touches the hearts of others, turning her life story into a masterpiece of resilience, hope, and inspiration.
