“I’m Jai Khanna. Art has been part of my life since childhood. At first, I didn’t even realise it was art. I was simply drawn to the form of Krishna. I didn’t know who he was at that time, but I felt a connection. Whatever I saw in my dreams, I tried to sketch. That’s how it started.

Over the years, Krishna’s form and presence became central to my work. My art is not just decorative—it’s deeply spiritual. Everything I create comes from scriptures or the visions I see in dreams. The paintings carry energy and intention; they are an expression of faith and meditation. It’s been over thirty years now, and I’ve had several solo shows. My entire body of work revolves around Krishna, blending ancient spirituality with visual form.

I studied marketing and worked in the corporate world for a while, but I never stopped creating art. Leaving a conventional path was difficult, but my family supported me—especially my mother, who is an artist too. Our family has a long history in textiles, so visual expression was always part of everyday life. Growing up in a large joint family in South Delhi, I was surrounded by many perspectives that shaped my outlook.

When I became a full-time artist, it felt like a natural step. Art was always there, quietly alongside everything else.

My knowledge of forms like Krishna, Mahavir, and Shiva comes from scriptures. As children, we listened to stories told by our grandparents. Over time, I developed a habit of reading and exploring different traditions and texts.

Energy and meditation play a vital role in my work. I believe art must carry energy to truly touch people. Many who see my paintings say they feel something stirring inside. Without meditation, I wouldn’t be able to create as I do.

My journey into Jainism began with a darshan at a Jain temple. In that moment, I clearly saw the face of Krishna. That experience stayed with me and led to visits to many Jain temples, reading Jain scriptures, and a deeper understanding of the philosophy. What began as a moment of spiritual clarity grew into a larger commitment. I spent three years travelling across the country, visiting sacred sites like Shravana Belgola and Kola Shikharji. This journey became the foundation for a solo show dedicated to Jainism’s five main gurus, expressed through symbolic language.

For Krishna and Shiva, I’ve spent time visiting temples across South India—in places like Kumbakonam and Kanchipuram—and also travelled East, including Puri. India’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage continues to inspire me deeply.

My brother has been my greatest support. He understands my work deeply and collects art himself.

Looking back, I still find it hard to believe I completed a full solo show on Jainism, especially since I knew almost nothing about it a few years earlier. But that’s what makes the journey meaningful—stepping into the unknown and trusting where it takes you.

Right now, I’m working on a new series focused on Shiva, and this is where most of my research and creative energy is going.”