Pattachitra

Ostindischer Meister 001

Two lovers, folio from a Ragamala album

Earthen pot with lid

Pattachitra Painting (16419923734)

Easy Pattachitra of Lord Jagarnath

Patta Chitra 01

Pattachitra is a traditional painting form originating from the eastern Indian states of Odisha and West Bengal. The name 'Pattachitra' is derived from the Sanskrit words 'patta', meaning cloth, and 'chitra', meaning picture. Pattachitra art is known for its intricate details as well as mythological narratives and folktales inscribed on it. This art form is closely related to the cult of Jagannath and the worship of Hindu deities in these regions.

History

The tradition of Pattachitra paintings dates back over a thousand years. The exact origins of Pattachitra are difficult to trace, but it is believed to have originated as a ritual art form within the precincts of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. Historically, these paintings were created for religious purposes, featuring deities and scenes from the Hindu epics, such as the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and the Puranas.

Techniques and Materials

Pattachitra artists, known as 'Chitrakars', traditionally use a canvas made of cloth coated with a mixture of chalk and gum, known as 'patta'. They prepare their own colors from natural sources: white from crushed seashells, yellow from turmeric, red from an indigenous stone called 'hingula', black from lampblack, and so on. The preparation of the canvas and the paints is a laborious process, often taking several days to complete.

The painting begins with a detailed sketch of the narrative, followed by the application of colors. The artists use fine brushes made from the hair of domestic animals to paint intricate patterns and motifs. A unique feature of Pattachitra art is the absence of shading in the depiction of figures; instead, a solid color is used for the bodies, while fine lines are used to depict facial features and costumes.

Themes

Pattachitra paintings predominantly depict themes from Hindu mythology. The most popular subjects are the tales of Lord Jagannath, Lord Krishna's life, the Dasavathara (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu), and scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Besides mythological narratives, Pattachitra also portrays the social life and traditions of the Odia people, as well as themes from nature.

Cultural Significance

Pattachitra is not just an art form but a living tradition that has been passed down through generations. It plays a significant role in the cultural and religious life of the people in Odisha and West Bengal. Pattachitra paintings are considered auspicious and are often used in religious ceremonies and festivals. The art form is also associated with the annual Rath Yatra festival in Puri, where paintings of the deities are traditionally sold to devotees.

Contemporary Relevance

In recent years, Pattachitra has gained national and international recognition, with artists adapting to modern tastes and experimenting with new themes and mediums. While traditional Pattachitra continues to thrive, contemporary artists are exploring the use of Pattachitra motifs in fashion, home decor, and other forms of popular culture. This has helped in keeping the art form alive and relevant in the 21st century.

Challenges

Despite its cultural significance, Pattachitra faces challenges such as the diminishing number of traditional artists and competition from modern art forms. The labor-intensive nature of the art and the time required to master it deter many young people from taking it up as a profession.

Conclusion

Pattachitra is a unique art form that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and West Bengal. Its survival and continued relevance are a testament to the skill and dedication of the Chitrakars who have kept this ancient tradition alive. As Pattachitra adapts to the changing times, it remains an important link to the past and a vibrant expression of Indian art and culture.