The correct answer is: b) Scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Basohli paintings are a style of Indian painting that originated in the town of Basohli in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The paintings are characterized by their use of bright colors, bold outlines, and intricate details. They often depict scenes from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata are a popular theme in Basohli paintings because they are stories that are familiar to and loved by many Indians. The paintings often depict scenes from the stories that are full of action, drama, and emotion. They can be seen as a way of bringing these stories to life and making them more accessible to people.
The other options are incorrect because they are not as popular themes in Basohli paintings. Landscapes are not often depicted in Basohli paintings, as the focus is usually on the human figures and the stories they are telling. Royal portraiture is also not a common theme, as the paintings are usually more focused on religious or mythological subjects. Market scenes are also not a common theme, as the paintings are usually more focused on courtly or religious life.
In conclusion, the correct answer to the question “A popular theme in Basohli paintings is:” is b) Scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.