The Heritage and Evolution of Pattachitra Paintings

1. Sign in ♥    400,000+ beautiful handpicked products The Heritage and Evolution of Pattachitra Paintings (VIEWED 7710 TIMES SINCE SEP 2021) Add a Comment Paintings are one of the oldest forms of storytelling in the world. Pattachitra art is one of the oldest forms of art from Pattachitra – giving the artform its name. This art style was used to depict images of Hindu mythological stories and fascinating characters. You can spot Pattachitra art with its distinctive bold colors and Italian craftsmanship. If you want to add a unique piece of Indian art to your home, there is nothing better to choose than a Pattachitra painting. These paintings incorporate Indian customs, rituals, and values in a unique and beautiful way that celebrates the Hindu faith and religion. This traditional art has evolved to appear in clothing and accessories, becoming living art that you can incorporate into your everyday life. We’re looking at the heritage behind Pattachitra paintings and what makes them so appealing. If you’re looking to add a Pattachitra painting to your home, you can explore our range of artwork here. The origin of Pattachitra paintings The origin story for Pattachitra paintings is covered in legend and mythology. It’s closely connected to the story of Jagannath. On the full moon of May or June, also known as the birthday of Jagannath, the deities from his temple were given a ritualistic bath to keep away the summer heat. During this ritual, thousands of people would witness the procession of bathing, also known as ʻSnana Yatra’. Jagannath and his brother and sister are taken for a ceremonial path through this procession. As a result of this bath, the three deities develop a fever that lasts for 15 days, known as ʻAnasar’. For these 15 days, devotees are unable to see their god. Pattachitra paintings originally emerged of these three deities, giving devotes a means to worship them when the idols were kept away for the 15 days following the bathing. This style of art was originally known as ʻAnasar Patti’ in honor of the 15 days of seclusion before becoming known as Pattachitra. The word ʻpattachitra’ means cloth painting and comes from the two words ʻpata’ and ʻchitra’. This type of art form is known as scroll painting and was typically carried out on cloth. Pattachitra paintings come from Odisha in the 5th century. The earliest records of Pattachitra art come from the village of Puri. Pattachitra art is still popular in this region today. The craftsmen behind this artform are known as ʻMaharanas’ and ʻMohapatras’. Puri was originally established by King Narasingha Deva 1 of the 13th century Eastern Ganga dynasty. The artists who live in this village trace their origins back to the Savar tribe. Purpose and Inspiration Behind Pattachitra Paintings The inspiration for the original Pattachitra paintings came from the architecture and temples around Odisha. The stories of the village were told through paintings, with the craftsmen narrating the stories through detailed paintwork. These scroll paintings were originally used for ritual purposes and were Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

2. given as souvenirs to pilgrims heading to Puri and temples in Odisha. The Jagannath and Vaishnavas tribes are widely credited for acting as the early patrons of the Pattachitra art form. Hindu gods were the main source of inspiration for paintings, such as Hanuman, Krishna, and Shiva. Hindu goddess also appears in the stories depicted in these paintings, including the goddess Parvati and Sita. The stories from Hindu scriptures in artform through Pattachitra paintings. Although Pattachitra paintings originated in Odisha, it’s also popular across West Bengal. The main difference between the Pattachitra paintings made in Odisha is that they are made using cotton fabrics, while silk is used by the Maharanas and Mohapatras in West Bengal. In West Bengal, Pattachitra paintings were used as a visual aid during the performances of songs and musical pieces. The signature style of Pattachitra paintings What makes Pattachitra paintings distinctive and easy to spot is how the craftsmen behind the paintings blend the signature elements of folk stories and classic art. While the overarching feeling will always be towards the folk stories and mythology that inspires the stories captured on the paintings, they also have a classical feel to them. You can also spot Mughal influences amongst the Pattachitra art that has been incorporated into apparel and accessories. These paintings will have distinctive dark lines with natural dyes and colors that are naturally derived from fruits and vegetables. Every Pattachitra painting tells a story, with the background usually being simply to allow the characters at the heart of the story to be the focal point of the painting. Classical elements, like flower motifs, are commonly incorporated into these paintings to make them more aesthetically pleasing to the eye. One thing that you’ll spot in every Pattachitra painting is a border, which usually relates to the story being told at the center of the painting. Beyond the paint used for the painting and the original textile, no other embellishments are used on Pattachitra paintings. Popular Imagery in Traditional Pattachitra Paintings There are several beautiful themes that are created and recreated on the Pattachitra canvases by the artists. However, there are few that stand out as the classic representations of the technique and aesthetics of Pattachitra paintings. Sri Jagannatha Pattachitra Originating from the temple of Jagannatha Puri, the art of Pattachitra has continuously celebrated the divinity of the Lord of the World. Paintings of Sri Jagannatha, alone or with Balarama and Subhadra, large Pattachitra paintings of Jagannatha Ratha Yatra, and paintings of different sringaar (ornamentation) of the Lord are popular themes, which are valued for their devotional and artistic beauty. Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

3. Ganesha Pattachitra Paintings The Lord of auspiciousness Sri Ganesha is a beloved presence in the art of India. In Pattachitra paintings, one of the most common aspects of Ganapati are his Nritya Ganapati and Dashabhuja, or ten-armed Ganesha, which focus on the blissful grace and cosmic power of the god. Surrounded by arches, heavenly beings and devotees praying in front of him, Ganesha in Pattachitra is one of the most beautiful images to behold. Narratives from Traditional Literature Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

4. Ideas such as Baramasa (twelve months) and 64 Kalas- the major and minor arts that make a perfect person are also used as themes by the artists to create masterpieces in Pattachitra. Take a closer look at this stunning handpainted Pattachitra, depicting the 64 Kalas as mentioned in classic Indian literature and folk traditions. The painting is done with precision on a Tussar silk canvas, which adds to the allure of the theme, making Pattachitras like this an example of the grandeur and detail of Indian folk art. Goddesses in Pattachitra Painting The tradition of goddess worship or Shakta sect is deeply rooted in the culture of Odisha, where Hindu goddesses like Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati, and local mother goddesses have a popular following and elaborate rituals and festivals centered around them. In the Pattachitra, representations of these goddesses are often appealingly dramatic, showing them in a warrior's pose, annihilating demons or supremely blissful, like this Ashtalakshmi Pattachitra, a masterpiece, showing the auspicious eight forms of the goddess, making it a deific image and artistic gem. Local Narratives and Motifs Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

5. There are many Pattachitra paintings in which regional and folk narratives, oral legends, and devotional texts unique to Odisha are presented. An example is this Navagunjara painting, showing Krishna as the composite of nine animals with Arjuna. This episode and the mythical animal are most popular in Odisha, where the Navagunjara motif is seen in architecture and sacred art as the symbol of Krishna’s supremacy. Another unique element of the Pattachitra is the Nari-Gunjara (elephant made of women) ridden by Krishna, who is depicted as the embodiment of Kama (Lord of Passion) enthroned on the alluringly intertwined bodies of Gopis who represent a passionate devotion. Tala Patra or Palm Leaf Pattachitra Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

6. The ancient art of Pattachitra was done on the palm leaves, dried and treated, and then covered in a subject that was needled into the leaf. Later, the paint was added, which went into the tiny holes on the leaf, setting in and creating a beautiful understated visual narrative. Palm leaf paintings are difficult to create as the material is fragile and does not last very long if not stored properly. These paintings are thus done by the master artists of Pattachitra, who have learned to dextrously and exquisitely paint on a leaf. Pattachitra Painting of Radha-Krishna based on Gita Govinda of Jaideva Though the devotional and romantic beauty of Jaideva’s medieval text “Gita-Govinda” has inspired artists of Rajput and Pahari paintings as well, the tradition around this text is deeply enriched with the folk elements of rural Odisha and Bengal, where the text was written. The work is based on the romantic Lilas of Krishna and Radha, describing their love in passionate and appealing details, making it an unparalleled contribution to the field of devotional arts. The paintings of Radha-Krishna in Pattachitra present the delicate charm of Jaideva’s poetry, giving the verses a timeless visual representation. Tree of Life Pattachitra Paintings Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

7. The Tree of Life, traditionally known as the Kalpavriksha or wish-fulfilling tree in India is a world-famous motif, popular among many cultures around the globe, for its universal symbolism. In the canvases of Pattachitra, this element is gaining popularity in the past few decades, as a traditional design that has contemporary appeal. In the Tree of Life Pattachitra here, we can see the placement of Radha-Krishna, the source of all life and auspiciousness of the world at the heart of the tree, as if they are the seeds of the plant from which the Universe and its fortunes are fruiting. Pattachitra paintings and apparel Fashion is a form of living art, making it no surprise that Pattachitra painting has found its way into numerous saris designs. These paintings are typically incorporated into saris made using cotton and silk textiles. Adding Pattachitra paintings is a quirky way of giving the traditional saris a refresh and making them feel both contemporary and traditional all at once. In apparel, Pattachitra paintings are typically incorporated using bright uses to give the clothing a vibrant color palette and to narrate the stories in jewel-tone hues. Although Pattachitra paintings are becoming increasingly popular for saris, you can also see them in everyday accessories, including household items. Pattachitra paintings are finding their way into virtually every form of living art, whether it’s clothing, accessories, or stationary items. Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

8. Ashtaganesha with Ridhi and Siddhi Pattachitra painting is unique, not only in India but across the world, due to its ritual significance and the uniqueness of its character. Both the Pattachitra art made in Odisha and West Bengal have been awarded Geographical Indication tags. Raghurajpur town, hailed as the original home of Pattachitra art, was named by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage to be a ʻheritage village’ in 2000. There have been numerous attempts in recent years to revive the popularity – and tradition – of Pattachitra art by introducing it to younger generations who aren’t as familiar with the tradition behind it. One way of achieving this is through incorporating Pattachitra art into apparel and accessories, making it a form of living art that takes on an even greater meaning. Pattachitra art and paintings today In West Bengal, Pattachitra artists are known as ʻChitrakar’, with most of them living in the Naya village in the Medinipur district. Amongst the best- known artists of Pattachitra art is Khandu and Radha Chitrakar and their seven children. Their daughter Monimala, in particular, is known for her signature use of bold and primal colors, which she used to develop her own style of Pattachitra art. Today, Pattachitra art is registered under two different names depending on its origins. Those styled after the tradition and motifs of Odisha art are known as ʻOdisha Pattachitra’, while its West Bengal equivalent is known as ʻBengal Patachitra’. Traditionally, the colors used to create Pattachitra paintings are natural. It’s not unusual for seashells to be powdered before being soaked and heated to create a white-colored paste. Black is made using an earthen plate that is smoked over a burning wick. Natural powder and everything from stones and green leaves are used to create more vibrant colors. Hingula, a stone found in Odisha, is powdered to create a red pigment, while yellow is made using the Harital stone. Blue is made using a stone called Khandanella.  These are the most significant colors within Pattachitra art. Pattachitra art is still closely tied to the sculpture and mythological stories that inspired the original scroll art centuries ago. It’s not uncommon to find Pattachitra artwork with nature – particularly the tree of life – at its heart. The Fair Mahishasuramardini Housed In A Cut-Glass Temple A Czech scholar, Dr. M Krasa, summed up Pattachitra art best in his 1984 book ʻPata-Paintings of Odisha’. He said that “the paintings speak the language of their creators, they give realistic expression, a clear symbol and humorous details. They are familiar to the eye, close to the heart, bringing joy, expressing life”. If you want a unique but traditional way of incorporating Indian mythology and folklore into your home, Pattachitra art is one of the most expressive ways of doing that. Every piece tells a unique story, whether you’re drawn to the bold and vibrant colors or the intricacy of the details behind the painting. Every Pattachitra painting tells a story. A picture tells a thousand words, and none does it more beautifully than a Pattachitra painting. You can shop our extensive collection of Pattachitra art here, including paintings of various sizes to display across your home. References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattachitra#Artists https://theculturetrip.com/asia/india/articles/pattachitra-a-spectacular-folk-art-form-from-odisha/ Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

9. Add a review Your email address will not be published * Comment Full Name * Email * Submit RELATED ITEMS Shri Krishna with Rukmini and… Shri Jagannath Rath Yatra | Superfine… 64 Kalas - Pattachitra Art… Trinity of Balarama Subhadra Krishna … Boat of Love | Pattachitra Art |… Kamdev Rati and Radha Krishna… "Nauka Vihar" - Krishna with Go 38 INCH HEIGHT X 62… 36 INCH HEIGHT X 60… 44 INCH HEIGHT X 84… 30.00 INCH HEIGHT X… 8.7 INCH HEIGHT X 11.2… 10 INCH HEIGHT X 12… 20 INCH HEIGHT X $3335 $3335 $2995 $495 $90 $99 $555 FREE Delivery FREE Delivery FREE Delivery FREE Delivery FREE Delivery FREE Delivery FREE Deliv Express Shipping Express Shipping Express Shipping Express Shipping Express Shipping Express Shipping Express Shipping RELATED CONTENT Pattachitra; An Ancient Folk Art that Reflects the Ethos of India Traditional art is an aspect of people\'s culture, with skills and knowledge passed through generations. It largely spread through word of mouth or by following in the footste… The Enduring Art of Pattachitra Technique of Pata Chitra Folk is the new Chic – How to Style your Home the Indic Way India has a long history of varied cultures, languages, religions. This has resulted in a multitude of ideas, in?uences and styl… India is a country rich in art and culture. Among the most unique, exquisite, and intricate forms of art is the Pattachitra. The name of this art form comes fro… "Pata derivation which literally means canvas so pata- painting means a scroll painting on canvas. The art of Pata Painting (or pa… is a Sanskrit traditions, rulers down and architectural Newsletter Your Email Subscribe Products ⌄ Explore our developer-friendly HTML to PDF API Printed using PDFCrowd HTML to PDF

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