In January 2025, Sahana Hebbar began her first Tanjore painting journey with no prior experience, only a deep interest in this traditional art form. She enrolled in the Lord Balaji Live Online Course at Tanjore Collective and completed her painting over a structured, guided online program.
What began as curiosity gradually turned into a meaningful and focused learning experience.
Starting Without Prior Experience
Sahana joined the Lord Balaji – Live Online Course, conducted through live Zoom sessions. As a beginner, she initially had no background in Tanjore painting.
“With no prior experience, only a deep admiration for this divine art, I found my teachers at Tanjore Collective, who guided me through each step.”
The online format allowed her to learn from home while still receiving detailed instruction and live guidance.
Learning Each Stage of the Painting Process
The course was structured to cover the entire process—from base preparation to gold work and final painting—over multiple weeks.
“Under their guidance, what started as a mere curiosity slowly turned into a fulfilling experience.”
Each session focused on one stage at a time, helping Sahana build confidence as the painting progressed.
Gold Work and Painting the Deity
As Sahana moved through the layers of embossing, gold application, and painting, the experience became increasingly meaningful for her.
“Every stroke and every layer of gold felt like a step toward something destined.”
The detailed nature of the Balaji painting required patience and focus, and the online sessions allowed her to revisit recorded classes whenever needed.
Completing the Lord Balaji Painting
As the painting neared completion, Sahana reflected on the emotional and spiritual aspect of the journey.
“With every stage completed, my heart swelled. This wasn’t just painting—it became a deeply spiritual experience.”
Putting the final touches on the Balaji artwork marked an important milestone for her.
“As I completed the painting, all I felt was devotion and gratitude for Lord Venkateshwara.”
Gratitude and Reflection
Sahana credits both her instructors and her personal support system for helping her complete the course.
“Thank you so much to Vibha and the entire team. I am truly grateful for their guidance.”
She also acknowledges the encouragement she received beyond the classroom.
“I am deeply grateful to my family for their constant support and to the Lord himself for making this possible.”
A Meaningful First Step into Tanjore Painting
By the end of the course, Sahana completed her first Tanjore painting of Lord Balaji and received her Certificate of Completion from Tanjore Collective.
Her journey shows that even through an online format, beginners can learn this intricate traditional art form with structured guidance, recorded support, and consistent practice.
