"The Boat and the Boatman," Kalim Rahi portrays a powerful metaphor for life, relationships, and the balance between men and women. The painting illustrates the world as an ocean, with its waves representing the ups and downs of life—happiness and sorrow.
 
The woman is symbolized as a boat, and her husband as the boatman who navigates her through the challenges of life. The condition of the boat determines whether one will safely reach their destination or be lost in the vast ocean.
 
Rahi’s message is clear: a woman plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting a man through life’s turbulent waters. If the boat is strong and well-kept, the journey will be smooth, but if the boat is weak or damaged, it could lead to ruin. The painting highlights the mutual dependence between men and women. Just as a boat without a skilled boatman is vulnerable to the ocean, a man without a woman by his side cannot reach his full potential.
 
Through this artwork, Rahi urges both women and men to understand and respect their complementary roles in life. He calls on women to honor and value their husbands, while also reminding men to cherish and support their wives. The message is one of unity and partnership—neither man nor woman is complete without the other.
 
"The Boat and the Boatman" is a profound reflection on the dynamics of marriage and relationships, emphasizing mutual respect, cooperation, and the essential roles each partner plays in navigating the journey of life.