What is Patachitra?

Patachitra is a style of paintings practiced among the tribal and indigenous people of Orissa. They are basically iconic depictions of gods and goddesses of the Hindu mythology. They are made on a variety of media including manuscripts, walls, palm leaves, silk, cotton canvases, wooden boards, saris and other apparel. It is a traditional art form carried over from eons and its chief proponents are also from a few hereditary lines. These families usually live around the temples which employ them to make these paintings for the purpose of worship. The artists, making these paintings usually do not have other sources of livelihood. Traditionally Raghurajpur and Dandasahi villages in the Puri district practiced this art form. Currently families from other areas like Bolangir, Sambalpur, and Ganjam also practice this art form.

Patachitras are known for their intricate lines and clever play of colors. Some Patachitras are made in a month or more, thanks to the amount of detail put into the painting. The process of making the Patachitra from basic starting materials to the lacquer on the painting is a time taking and convoluted process. Relying on natural elements for its colors and materials, Patachitra could be a symbolic of how painting and art can be practiced in complete harmony with nature, without the use of toxic paints and chemicals.

Who should read the following set of articles?

You should read this if you would like to know in depth about traditional and indigenous art forms. You should also read this if you are planning to buy Patachitra or allied Indian indigenous art forms. If you know about artists and want to explore opportunities - then you should contact the links below.

Who buys Patachitra?

A vast array of individuals have bought and re-distributed these paintings. Famous politicians and big screen stars also adorn their opulent homes with these paintings especially in the Indian subcontinent. Tourists in Orissa find it to be an important "must have" souvenir. Special souvenir mementos showing the utsava image including the central sanctuary of the Puri temple is painted for the tourists. These paintings, which carry brilliant colors and extremely detailed work, are considered to be collector's items across the globe. Special large sized Patachitras are made by contracted artists for adorning foyers and receptions of many five star hotels in various parts of the world. Academia also prefer to buy these paintings as it appeals to their astute natures.

If you are a fan of indigenous art forms and wish to adorn your home with the same, then buying a special Patachitra would be right up your alley. They also make excellent and very unique gifts for weddings and other occasions, especially if the recipient is from the Academia or is an artists him/herself.

In the following set of articles we are going to answer the following questions...

Where is it practiced?
Who makes Patachitra?
What are the materials used in making a Patachitra?
How is Patachitra made?
How much training is needed to make Patachitra?
What are the details of the traditions in making Patachitra?
Where to buy Patachitra?
How to make custom designed Patachitra?
How to make out a good Patachitra painting from average ones?
What is the future of this art form?
What changes have occurred over the years in this form?