Pattachitra Paintings

Pattachitra, one of the oldest folk art traditions of India, is still practised in Odisha and West Bengal.

Pattachitra is a Sanskrit word derived from patta, meaning canvas or cloth or palm leaf; and chitra, meaning picture. This style of hand-painting was originated in Odisha in 12th century BC, i.e. more than 3000 years ago, and it started when Odiya painters or patuas started drawing paintings as temple offerings.

Pattachitra's theme mostly revolves around Hindu deities and various mythological stories associated with them. These are drawn using rich, colorful & creative motifs in well-defined poses.

In earlier times, artists themselves used to prepare the canvas for their artwork and make colors from shells, dyes, turmeric root, organic lac, minerals, etc. Nowadays, they use high quality artist grade professional colors available in the market.

Historically, this art style was done by only men, but now women and even young girls are also taking up this art form and creating beautiful art pieces.

Laxmi Meher is one such woman artist from BolangirTown in Odisha. She has won State Award from Chief Minister of Odisha in 1990 for her proficiency and dedication towards the art form. And later she also won Master Craftsman National Award from the President of India in 2005.

Interestingly, pattachitra is as old as new! And since last few decades, it has gained interest, appreciation and buyers from across the globe.

Image Credits: Laxmi Meher | CC BY-SA 4.0, Lord Jagannath Pattachitra Wall Painting | CC BY-SA 4.0