Blogs on Pattachitra

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 from the Sanskrit word patta, which means “cloth” and chitra, meaning “picture”. As the name describes, Pattachitra refers to art in the form of pictures or paintings illustrated on cloth. Considered as one of the oldest art forms that still exists to this day, Pattachitra is believed to have originated from as early as the twelfth century. The traditional art form is popular and practiced predominantly in the Indian states of Odisha and West Bengal. Those who create Pattachitra paintings are known as chitrakars. Pattachitras were originally produced for use in rituals, as visual accompaniments during the performance of songs, and as mementos for temple pilgrims. They commonly depict icons from Hindu tradition, religious stories, mythological narratives, especially those inspired by the Lord Jagannath and the Vaishnava sect in Hinduism, as well as folktales. Some of the most popular themes that are brought to life through the cloth paintings include temple activities, Dasabatara Pati which is Lord Vishnu’s ten incarnations, Panchamukhi which is an image of Lord Ganesh as a deity with five heads, Badhia which refers to the representation of the Jagannath temple, Krishna Lila which shows Lord Krishna wielding his powers as a child, as well as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, just to mention a few.

Traditional art is an aspect of people's culture, with skills and knowledge passed down through generations. It largely spread through word of mouth or by following in the footsteps of a cultural group. Patta painting is regarded, as an important form of Odia painting, which developed in the 12th century at the Jagannath temple in Puri. Jagannath temple has been a centre of Orissan art and culture. Puri and Raghurajpur are considered a realm of myths and gods, as well as folklore of Pattachitra. This style evolved under the patronage of the Ganga kings and the Bhoi Dynasty's king. The painting's objective was to popularize the Jagannath worship among the millions of pilgrims that visited Puri. The origin of the Patachitra paintings can be traced back to the 8th century AD and, is considered as one of the earliest forms of indigenous paintings. The term Pattachitra is derived from the Sanskrit words patta, which means canvas, and Chitra, which means painting. Thus, Pattachitra creates a scroll painting on canvas that is manifested, by rich colourful application, innovative motif and designs, and depiction of a simple theme, generally mythological in depiction.

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.