tourism in india related painting

A Sneak Peek into Evolution of India’s Madhubani Painting from Folk Tradition to International Profession

Folk art, culture and tradition are the attractions of rural tourism in India. Many foreign scholars and travelers take to off-the-beaten paths of villages in quest of the folk art forms of India every year. Indian Eagle connects them with Indian culture and heritage to promote rural tourism as its social responsibility. Like the previous article,” The Art and Craft of Raghurajpur in the State of Orissa” , our take on the Madhubani Painting of Bihar is an effort towards achieving the goal.

Image Credit: Madhubanipaintings.co.in

Connection with legends ?

Madhubani Painting is a famous rural art of Madhubani, a village in the Mithila region of Bihar State, India. The origin of this art form is traced to the time of the Ramayana when Lord Ram was the King of Ayodhya in North India. If the legends are to be believed, a group of artists was commissioned to decorate the wedding venue with beautiful paintings on the occasion of the marriage of Ram and Sita by Janak, the King of Mithila.

From tradition to profession

Madhubani Painting has been an age-old tradition that women in the countryside perpetuated as a practice to decorate their huts from outside as well as inside on social and religious occasions. It has evolved from a folk culture tradition into a popular form of Indian art with the wheeling of time. In the bygone times, signs and symbols of sexual pleasure used to be painted on the walls of the rooms where newlywed couples spent the first night of marriage. With menfolk in the villages of Bihar having taken up Madhubani Painting as a profession, women have lost the monopoly over it.

Image Credit:  Gaatha.com

Themes with religious bearings ?

The theme of Madhubani Painting is mostly influenced by the religious motifs and beliefs of Indians. Both practitioners and professionals of this traditional Indian art form are driven by love for nature and devotion for the Hindu deities. They depict the popular legends of Rama, Krishna, Durga, Kali, Shiva, Lakshmi, Saraswati and Indra, the abstract scenes from the courts of kings, and the familiar objects of day-to-day life through a palette of colors on cloth as well as canvas.

Close to the world of nature?

Lively illustration of natural objects such as the sun, the moon, flowers, birds and herbal plants like tulsi is popular with the artists of Madhubani Painting. The artists of the past years used organic colors derived or made from natural things like cow dung, charcoal soot, turmeric, flowers, plants, leaves, rice powder, sandalwood and indigo. The paintings on the walls and floors were close to simplicity and far from sophistication. Though the beauty of themes, the delicacy of sketching, and the flamboyance of colors are the mainstay of Madhubani painting even today.

Poetic and trantric connection

According to some art curators, Madhubani Painting was associated with the tantric culture of ancient  India  though it is still debated. The Mithila region of Bihar has been a seat of tantric practices for the Saiva and Sakti communities. References to the tantric connection of Madhubani Painting are found in the literary work of the poet Vidyapati who belonged to the 12th century.

Role of rural womenfolk ?

When the female members of Brahmin and Kayastha families were instructed to abide by the rules of the Panji System in 1326, differences appeared in the theme and style of Madhubani Painting based on their socio-economic status, lifestyles, creative levels and exposure to the outer world. The women from the upper reaches of society hardly experimented with themes, styles and motifs due to lack of exposure into the world beyond their confined existence. So their thought and imagination was limited to religious motifs and household rituals. Their Madhubani paintings became stylistic and intricate though variety was missing.

Socio-economic differences?

The paintings made by the women of lower castes like the Harijan exuded raw originality. Their paintings were less intricate and sophisticated than the works of the women of higher castes. They put emphasis on depth and beauty rather than ornamentation. Evidently, the socio-economic differences were apparent in the Madhubani Painting of? the previous eras.  Gobar, Godana, Bharmi, Geru, Kachni  and  Tantric  are some of the popular styles of this traditional art form.

International contributions?

With art-loving tourists from around the world having taken interest in the rural tourism and heritage of India, Madhubani Painting has gone beyond the confines of Mithila to touch international heights. India owes the worldwide popularity of Madhubani Painting to Japan, Germany, France and America in particular.  The Mithila Museum in Tokamachi, Japan , exhibits some 900 paintings of different styles from Madhubani.  ?The Women Painters of Mithila? , a book on Madhubani Painting by a French journalist was adapted into a film.  The Master Craftsmen Association of Mithila , founded by an American in 1977, helps the artists of Madhubani with the sale of their creations through exhibitions.

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Monsoon: Indian Paintings of the Rainy Season

Lovers stealing out for secret trysts under cover of stormy nights, visits to the monsoon retreats of holy men, and divine beings associated with sources of water and rain are among the pictorial subjects in this exhibition, which explores visual representations of the rainy season in India.

Typically arriving each June with dramatic cloudbursts and intense rainfall along the southern and northeastern reaches of the subcontinent, the monsoon is the most eagerly anticipated weather phenomenon in India, sustaining lives, transforming landscapes, and raising human spirits. As an integral feature of South Asian life, the rains have long been celebrated in various mythologies, rituals, communal observances, and poetic expressions.

This selection of paintings, from northern India and the Himalayan foothills, conveys the ways in which Indian literature, music, and visual arts have mirrored and amplified broadly shared cultural perspectives on, and lived experiences of, the monsoon.

This installation was organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Image:  Dalliance in Vrindavan , c. 1725, From the Nasli and Alice Heeramaneck Collection, Museum Associates Purchase M.77.19.17 © Museum Associates

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Guide to madhubani paintings from mithila, bihar.

Madhubani paintings are the most prominent art from the Mithila region of Bihar. Madhubani is a town in Mithila that played its role in taking this local art form global so Madhubani Paintings is the name that the world knows.

Brief History of Mithila

The Mithila region of Bihar lies mostly between the north banks of the Ganga and the foothills of the Himalayas in Nepal.

It is best known for being home to Mata Sita, who was also known as Maithili as she hailed from his region. Her father’s kingdom was in a place called Janakpur which is now in Nepal but just a few kilometers across the border.

Sita was born or rather found in a place called Sitamarhi. However, she first met and then married Sri Ram at Janakpur. Ram-Janaki wedding is a popular theme in Mithila Paintings.

Mithila region is known for innumerable ponds that are found here, fish that is fondly eaten here, Makhana or foxy nuts that grow here in abundance, sweet language, and smiling people. It is primarily an agrarian society.

Legacy of Mithila or Madhubani Paintings

Mithila paintings were traditionally wall art, that the women painted on their walls. They were also ritual paintings that would be painted during weddings, childbirth, or different festivals.

Paintings were not meant to be permanent. They painted again every time there was a new event in the family demanding a new painting.

Like every folk art, there is a lot of stylistic and content coding within the paintings. Every community has its own motifs and icons that they painted.

The distinction has gone away with the severe commercialization of the art form. Today, individual artists do have their signature styles but most of the themes are dictated by market demand.

Modern Avatar of Madhubani Paintings

Madhubani Art was first noticed outside the region when British Surveyors visited the region after an earthquake in the 1930s. However, it would need another earthquake in the 1960s for these paintings to become the face of Mithila.

In the 1960s earthquake Pupul Jayakar assigned photographer Bhaskar Kulkarni to survey the Madhubani area. They thought taking the wall art to paper would create a source of livelihood during these tough times for this agrarian community.

This was when artists started painting on paper instead of walls, something that they could sell easily. Exhibitions were organized to take this art to the world. Lalit Narayan Mishra who was a foreign minister then, and who hails from this region, applied his push to take it to international platforms. Organizations like Ethnic Arts Foundation stepped in to help.

Slowly and firmly, Madhubani paintings made their presence in the global art world. You could see them on walls around the globe. Since most outsiders interacted with Madhubani, it came to be known as Madhubani paintings. Traditionally it was a ritual art form practiced across Mithilanchal.

They may have never realized this would become their signature art form for the rest of the world.

Different Types of Madhubani Paintings

Madhubani paintings can be divided into two bases.

The first is based on the Jati or the communities. Each community would use its own heritage and socio-culture to paint on its walls. What joins all of them is that be it Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Kayasthas, or Paswans, all of them practice this art form.

Second, is based on the painting styles. This has three main components

Kachhni – The line drawing that is made in free hand by the artist.

Bharani – It literally means filling. So, this is the filling of colors in the line drawings.

It is the combination of Kachhani and Bharani that creates a Madhubani Painting. Most scenes are depicted using these two techniques.

Godana – Godana is the traditional art of tattoo that was practiced across communities in India. There are traditional motifs that were engraved on the skin. Since they were primarily made on the exposed parts of the body like hands and neck, these motifs are usually small in size.

When these small motifs, were transferred on paper, a lot of them were drawn to create a painting. These paintings tend to be more geometrical and have a fuller effect on paper.

Tantrik Paintings – These are paintings drawn by those who follow the Tantra path of worship, mostly Shakta worshippers. They typically paint deities like Dash Mahavidyas along with the Yantras. Sometimes they draw just the yantras.

These paintings are used for Sadhana and worship.

Kohbar – Ritual Painting for Weddings

This is a ritual wedding painting created in the room of the bride and groom by all the communities in Mithila. It carries various fertility and prosperity symbols. It is usually drawn on the eastern wall of the room.

The key elements include:

• A lotus flower in the center with its expanding petals
• Flora and Fauna like Bamboo, Peacock
• Shiva and Parvati
• Wedding Rituals like Puja by the couple
• Sun, Moon, and other planets as a witness or to bless

The nuances may differ in different communities and different families. Overall, the objective of this painting is to seek protection and blessings for the newlywed couple.

Earlier Kohbar used to draw fresh on the wall. Now, most people get it made on paper and paste it on the wall. Even at the homes of legendary artists, we saw the paper ones in practice.

Individual Styles

Every painter or artist also has their own choice of motifs and colors. While the styles of prominent artists like Ganga Devi have been studied and documented, each one of them has a distinctive signature.

Colors Used in Madhubani Paintings

If I ask you to close your eyes and think about the most used colors in these paintings, you may see black lines prominently with small blobs of different colors. You may see the dominance of black and red color on a beige or off-white background.

The dull beige background is created by applying a layer of cow dung on paper and allowing it to dry in sun.

Like most Indian painting traditions, the colors in Mithila also came from natural sources like plants, flowers, and home products like soot. Only some artists continue to use colors like Gerua or rust color. Most have shifted to easy-to-use, readily available, and long-lasting acrylic colors.

India is a country that loves colors, that too vibrant colors. So, the traditional paintings used to be in bright Holi colors like – Magenta, Bright Yellow, Sparkling Green, etc.

Black and White Madhubani Paintings

However, when the commercialization happened, it was the customer demand that dictated the colors. After the 1960s, we see a prominence of black and white and other subtler colors. It was probably driven by the demand in the West.

Curators, who were the mediators between the artist and the rest of the world, also dictated the color schemes. In fact, at times they told different communities to use certain colors and motifs so that they could clearly define different styles.

Folk art as we know evolves organically and has no clear boxes or boundaries to limit it. However, the art market needs clear boxes to be able to create a demand. This is how paintings in Mithila paintings evolved in the last few decades.

Visiting Madhubani Paintings Villages in Mithila

On our trip to Mithila, we were looking forward to visiting the villages that have produced no less than seven women artists decorated with the Padma Shree award.

My imagination was walking into the villages with paintings all around. I hardly saw any paintings in Darbhanga, where we were based except on the Government buildings where both traditional and modern scenes were painted. We could not find any such villages.

We thought of visiting Madhubani town, where I knew that the railway station has been painted very meticulously. I had visuals of Ratnagiri railway station in Maharashtra that has Warli paintings on its walls.

Finally, a stroke of luck has us meet the historian Dr. Narendra Narayana Singh ‘Nirala’ ji, who is an expert on Madhubani Paintings. He spoke to us in detail about the modern avatar of Mithila Paintings and how organizations like Ethnic Arts Foundations played the role.

Nirala ji told us about many institutes that have been established to formally teach the art form. He said – Mithila paintings are found everywhere in Mithila but what is sold to the outside world are Madhubani Paintings.

Nirala ji took us to different villages to meet different artists and also different styles painted by them. After this, he also shared his personal collection of old paintings with us.

Jitwarpur Village

Jitwarpur village is best known for Madhubani Paintings.

We first visited Krishna Kant Jha ji at his home. He is a Mahapatra Brahmin and works primarily on scenes from epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. Currently working on paintings of Hanuman, he very kindly allowed us to watch him paint.

He first drew on the border with multiple straight lines. Then he created a border between the lines using triangles. After watching him, I noticed that indeed every Mithila painting has a similar border.

Then he drew the outline of Hanuman ji holding a mountain in his hand. His hands moved with ease as he drew lines with his free hand, without using anything but a pen dipped in black ink.

Once complete, he or someone else in his family will fill the colors and the painting is complete. Yes, most paintings are a teamwork of family members. The master artists draw the outline and others help by filling in the colors.

If you pass by his home, you may never imagine that it is the home of a successful commercial artist. He not only sells his paintings from home but also visits different places to teach the art form to students. He also gets invited to paint walls in public or private places.

Shanu Paswan’s House

We then went inside the village to see the Paswan community paintings. Here we did find some houses painted. At the home of Shanu Paswan ji, we saw a lot of Godna-style paintings. We met Sheela Devi ji whose out-house was full of paintings with a part still work in progress.

Here we saw the local rituals of the community being painted like Rahu Puja and the stories of the folk deity Raja Salhesh or Sailesh. Paintings feature animals like tigers prominently.

It reminded me of the Cherial Paintings of Telangana.

Tantrik Paintings of Krishnanand Jha

To visit this artist’s home, we had to literally walk through the fields to reach the house at the end. The wife of the Late Krishnanand Jha ji greeted us and showed us the album with photographs of all the paintings done by her husband.

She then opened a bundle of paintings that included Dash Mahavidya , Dashavatar of Vishnu prominently among other paintings. Since these paintings are used for worshipping, they are mostly made on order.

Padmashri Godavari Dutt

In the end, we visited the home of Padma Shri Godavari Dutt in Ranti Village. She has one of the best Kohbar drawn on the wall of her living room. In her 90s, Godavari ji was not very mobile, but she still welcomed us with open arms, with motherly affection.

Her daughter-in-law Anjani Devi ji showed us the paintings around the house and explained the Kohbar to us. She represents the Kayastha community and her paintings have dominant black, red, and white colors.

Godavari Dutt’s work is exhibited at the Mithila Museum in Tokamachi in Japan. She has visited Japan multiple times to create the museum collection there.

Madhubani Sarees Studio in Darbhanga

In Darbhanga, we visited the studio of national award-winning Madhubani artist Asha Jha ji. Besides paintings, she specializes in painting Madhubani Saris and Dupattas.

Her daughters gifted me a Paag and a Dupatta which is traditionally offered to guests. It is worn by Maithili Brahmins during formal occasions. You can not move your head much when you wear it.

Her designs are in demand as much as her customized Saris are in demand. Check out the Madhubani Paints’ website or IG Handle.

Travel Tips for Madhubani

Madhubani is well connected by Rail and Road. Darbhanga is the closest big city and airport.

Jitwarpur is best known as the village of Madhubani artists.

It is not easy to go there on your own. I do not think there are any organized tours that take you to these villages. So, get in touch with a local who can take you to these artists.

If you are not keen on meeting the artists, but only want to buy Madhubani paintings, Dilli Haat in Delhi is a better bet. Most of these artists participate there on a regular basis.

A lot of them sell online, so look out for them on Amazon .

To learn, you can contact Upendra Maharathi Shilp Anusandhan Sansthan in Patna who conducts free courses to teach Madhubani Paintings.

You can stay in Darbhanga where there are few options to stay.

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Beautiful! Traditional and so exquisite!!This art should be kept alive. The details and depth in these paintings are breathtaking.

“Wow, what an incredible adventure you had! Your description of the breathtaking scenery and cultural experiences you encountered on your trip has me feeling both inspired and envious.

Thanks for sharing very useful information on Madhubani Paintings with us. It is very important for everyone .

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Art Tourism – A journey through Indian history

August 6, 2021

/ By Susanti Sarkar / New Delhi

Visitors at Jehangir art gallery in Mumbai (Photo: Flickr)

India is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of its cultural heritage, with a myriad of religions, languages, and traditions that have resulted in a diverse array of artistic endeavours, from sculptures and temples to modern contemporary paintings and handicrafts. From the earliest paintings ever found in India, which were animal and human figures scratched onto the Bhimbetka caves in Madhya Pradesh, to 21 st century Indian artists who have been celebrated globally like Satish Gujral and Nasreen Muhamadi, India has a plethora of schools of paintings that are displayed in galleries and museums across the country, as well as a diverse offering of regional crafts tours.

Private art galleries have been established in India since the 1900s, providing a platform where Indian modernists and contemporary artists could sell their paintings to buyers. Museums also let art lovers experience centuries of history and culture through different mediums. Countries have been endorsing art tourism as a way for tourists to appreciate art of different regions, curated specially for gallery owners, artists, collectors, museum curators and art students.

Often, these artists also travel around the world to seek ideas and inspirations for creating new art. Globally, the West, especially countries in Europe and America, is famous for such attractions, such the Louvre in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the Van Gogh museum in Amsterdam. Some tour companies also have tours specially designed for such tourists to travel to locations with unique pieces, explore and engage related to art, such as galleries, museum tours, and even festivals and cuisine events. Although the official concept of art tourism might not be so widespread in India yet, the country boasts a number of masterpieces that are globally recognised.

Here is a list of some of the most unique art galleries and art museums in India that feature world-famous Indian artists and works of art that continue to inspire artists today.

Government Museum, Chennai

A South-Indian Tanjore painting

The Government Museum in Chennai, also known as the Madras Museum, was established in 1851. It is the third-largest museum in the world and houses the National Art Gallery that underwent an extensive renovation with a budget of INR 110 million in 2019. It is known for containing rare works of Raja Ravi Varma, who is considered one of the greatest painters in the history of Indian Art. Varma’s works were a brilliant fusion of European academic art and Indian iconography, and he was awarded the Kaisar-i-Hind Gold Medal in 1904 by the British king emperor for his contribution to the arts and public interest in India.

One of the gallery’s most unique displays is its collection of Tanjore paintings, which are a classical South Indian painting style primarily religious in its inspiration, originating from the town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. Usually done on wooden planks, the painting style is known for its rich and vivid colours, glittering gold foil work overlaid on gesso work and the incorporation of glass beads and semi-precious gems. Collections of Tanjore paintings are also housed in the British and Victoria & Albert museums in England and in the National Museum of Copenhagen, so the Government Museum is a great place for art-loving locals to see one of India’s artistic gems.

The National Gallery of Modern Art, New Delhi

Another government initiative, the National Gallery of Modern Art was started in 1954 and has over 14,000 paintings both by foreign and Indian artists such as Raja Ravi Varma and the Tagore brothers. Of the Western and Far Eastern artists, NGMA has paintings by those who visited India in the 18 th and 19 th centuries and depicted portraits and exotic Indian scenes in their art, including William Hodges and Emily Eden.

NGMA was established particularly to promote more modern contemporary art from the 19 th century onwards. One of the regional painting schools it features is Kalighat painting, which originated in the then-British-Indian capital of India, Calcutta. Artisan communities used mill-made paper and ink to illustrate romantic drawings of women or satirical paintings of the newly rich, among others. The way these paintings captured the essence of people’s daily lives made it a unique style which even today influences notable artists like Jamini Roy, whose collection is featured in NGMA.

Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai

A Satish Gujral creation

The Jehangir Art Gallery is a private gallery in Mumbai, which was established in 1952. It houses some of the finest art creations in the world and boasts paintings from famous Indian artists such as Jamini Roy and Arpita Singh. These artists have made a name for themselves globally and artists all over India line up for opportunities to display their work at Jehangir.

For example, Satish Gujral, who held several exhibitions at Jehangir, was one of the few Indian artists with paintings featured in the prestigious Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Gujral was one of the most experimental artists in the history of modern Indian art and was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1998, as well as international honours like Belgium’s Order of the Crown for Architecture. Thus, galleries like these provide excellent opportunities for Indians to see world-renowned artists in their own neighbourhood.

The Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh

The Chandigarh art gallery was founded in 1968 due to the partition of India in 1947. Prior to the partition, the extensive collection of paintings and sculptures belonged to the museum in Lahore but after independence, it was shared between India and Pakistan.

The art gallery holds paintings from prominent artists such as Amrita Sher-Gil and Rabindranath Tagore. Notably, the museum also has several Gandhara sculptures: different forms of Buddha, often uniquely portrayed in a beautiful, Greek-god-like form due to the Indo-Greek influence of the era.

National Museum, New Delhi

The iconic Krishna and Radha in a Pavillion Pahari painting

The National Museum in Delhi was established in 1949 and is especially prominent for displaying the largest collection of miniature paintings in the country, ranging from the time periods of 10 th to 20 th century. The museum contains around 17,000 paintings, which represent important styles of Indian miniatures, such as Deccani (South India), Mughal (Central and North India), Rajasthani and Pahari. The collection also includes a diverse array of murals, cloth and wood paintings.

Originating from the Himalayan hill kingdoms of North India, Pahari painting is one of the most illustrious and lyrically beautiful schools of paintings in Indian art history. They usually capture stories of Mughals, Rajput kings and deities. The most famous Pahari painting called Krishna and Radha in a Pavillion depicts the lovers beneath a jeweled pavilion in a lavish garden of ripe mangoes and flowering shrubs, while the sky fleetingly lights up with a lightning flash – a technique customarily used in Pahari miniatures to signify pleasure and excitement; the original can only be seen by art lovers at the National Museum.

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A story is a personal narrative about a person and their project told in the first person . The story should illustrate how a tourism experience, or a person involved in the industry, had an effect on the advancement of the sustainable development goals. Users are requested to include as much detail as possible, with particular attention to the SDGs.

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I am Swarna Chitrakar, and this is my story….

I belong to the village of Naya that is around 160 kms away from the city of Kolkata, in India. Our village has found a place on the cultural map of India because of its thriving tradition of Pata-chitra, or traditional scroll painting. I went through the hardships of daily life like any other woman of my community. But I wanted to break free from social shackles and taboos, especially those that prevented painting and singing by women. I settled down at Naya with my husband and daughters and started painting Pata-chitra, encouraged by my father Amar Chitrakar and my uncle Dukhushyam Chitrakar.

Traditionally this art form was practiced by the menfolk. Men primarily painted and sang while the women helped in making colors from minerals, fruits, flowers, seeds and leaves. Women were not supposed to paint the pata themselves. All this has changed now.

Naya was once a poor village, but today it is an active settlement of around 60 families of Patua – the community of scroll painters, many of whom are women. The community is called Patua and all of them have their last name as Chitrakar, meaning painter. I belong to this community of painters. Naya is now a flourishing hub of Patachitra painting and a year round cultural and tourist destination.

At one point of time, this art form was dying as electronic media made inroads into the village community. It was tough to sell the paintings and our survival was difficult. A social enterprise www.banglanatak.com started working in our village to revive the tradition with support of the Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre in 2005. There were only around 20 painters and hardly anyone knew the songs. Veteran painters like Dukhushyam, Shyamsundar, Rani Chitrakar trained the young people on painting. Dukhushyam taught singing. Audiovisual CDs were published on our painting tradition. The lost art of the use of natural colour was revived.

In 2010, www.banglanatak.com organized POT Maya a three day fair in our village. They also set up a resource centre. The resource centre provided us much needed space to practice and showcase our art tradition. The fair and the resource centre created a new tourism culture. Tourists and visitors began to pour in with great interest and I could now have a direct communication and interaction with the collectors. POT Maya held in the second weekend of November celebrated its fourth edition in 2014. Our art has found appreciation among the local people as well as across the country and the globe. More and more artists and mainly women are now involved in Patachitra and there are more than 300 painters in our village. It has opened up a new world of freedom for womenfolk particularly. The women who had restricted mobility, are enjoying a new freedom and are travelling across the country. Patuas have now travelled to countries like France, Germany, the UK, Italy, China, The US, Australia and Japan.

Today Patachitra has become a vibrant folk media telling stories not only from epics and mythology but also on new contemporary subjects. We paint on themes like climate change, violence against women, human trafficking or events like 9/11 and tsunami. Collectors and buyers travel all the way to our village to see and buy our paintings. My village Naya has now become a most important tourist destination. The Department of Micro, Small, Medium Enterprise and Textiles is now supporting development of comprehensive infrastructure as our village has emerged as a successful Rural Craft Hub.

Today, I feel so happy to see children in the village taking up brush and color on weekend mornings anticipating visitors. I feel proud and happy that I am a part of this renewed culture.

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Indigenous Tourism in India: Evaluating the Strengths of Mithila Painting Art and Heritage and Suggesting Integrated Marketing Development Approach for Sustainable Promoti

2017, Atna - Journal of Tourism Studies

Since many generations, the folks of Mithilaecifically, the womenfolk have been creating a vigorous and distinct style of painting, known for its free hand skating and use of natural colures, carry forwarded from one to another generation through ‘mother’s-to-daughters’ tradition.

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Contribution of Art and Culture to India’s Sustainable Development Goals

Art and culture significantly contribute to India’s sustainable development goals, fostering social, economic, and environmental development. By integrating art and culture into society, they promote positive change, social inclusion, empowerment, innovation, and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage.

Art and culture significantly contribute to India’s sustainable development goals , fostering social, economic, and environmental development. By integrating art and culture into society, they promote positive change, social inclusion, empowerment, innovation, and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. These efforts have been used to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting social cohesion, preserving cultural heritage, fostering education, and empowering marginalized communities. Some of the case studies in India demonstrate the positive impact of art and culture on achieving these goals.

Art and culture are essential for achieving sustainable development goals in India by raising awareness, promoting understanding, and inspiring action. India’s folk music, dance, tourism, handicrafts, and street art initiatives contribute to social issues like gender equality and climate change. These forms raise awareness, promote economic growth, and preserve India’s rich heritage, ensuring its continuity for future generations. By engaging communities through art and culture, India can effectively work towards achieving SDGs and creating a sustainable future.

Role of Art in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in India

Art and culture are transformative tools in achieving India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering creativity, raising awareness, and driving social change. Artists can communicate complex issues and advocate for sustainable practices, such as Komal Kothari’s preservation of traditional knowledge and the Delhi street art movement’s efforts to address climate change, waste management, and gender equality simultaneously.

Promoting social inclusion and equality

Art and culture play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals in India. They transcend barriers like caste, religion, and gender, promoting unity and social cohesion. Artists engage with marginalized groups, providing a platform for their voices to be heard, challenging societal norms, and fostering a more inclusive society. Examples include the Aravani Art Project in India, which empowers transgender communities while challenging stereotypes and promoting acceptance and equality. The Kathputli Colony Slum in Delhi was transformed into an art district, allowing residents to showcase their talents and uplift their socio-economic status.

Rang De, an initiative supporting education through art, aims to bridge the educational gap in rural and underprivileged communities by promoting art and creativity. The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, an annual event in Mumbai, promotes diversity and inclusion by showcasing diverse art forms and fostering unity among individuals from various backgrounds. By investing in art and culture, India can harness their transformative potential to address pressing global challenges and propel sustainable development.

Raising awareness and educating the public

Art and culture play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals, particularly in India. The “Horn Please” campaign in India used colourful truck murals to raise awareness about road safety, reducing accident rates. Cultural festivals like the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in Mumbai provide a platform for artists to address pressing issues like environmental conservation and urbanization, promoting dialogue and learning among the public.

The case study of Street Artists Unite raises awareness about environmental issues by bringing together street artists to create large-scale murals highlighting environmental challenges. The Aravani Art Project empowers the transgender community through art, challenging societal norms and stereotypes and promoting acceptance and inclusion. These arts and culture can serve as powerful tools for achieving sustainable development goals, such as gender equality and social inclusivity.

Fostering economic growth and entrepreneurship

Art and culture play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals in India by providing opportunities for creative initiatives and cultural tourism. The Jaipur Literature Festival in Rajasthan has boosted the local economy by attracting national and international tourists. The government’s “Make in India” campaign promotes manufacturing and entrepreneurship by incorporating traditional craft techniques into contemporary industries, preserving cultural heritage while generating employment and economic growth. The Madhubani painting tradition in Bihar showcases the potential of the arts and crafts industry to provide sustainable livelihoods and empower communities in rural areas. Handloom exhibitions promote sustainable fashion, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Indian textiles and handicrafts, creating awareness about sustainable fashion, and generating livelihood opportunities for artisans.

Art and culture can also raise awareness and drive positive change, as seen in the work of Indian artist Subhodh Gupta, who uses everyday objects to comment on consumerism and waste. Cultural activities like folk dances and music festivals celebrate local traditions, fostering pride and belonging and encouraging communities to preserve their cultural heritage and promote sustainable tourism. Overall, art and culture offer a powerful platform to address sustainable development in India by stimulating dialogue, encouraging behavioural change, and promoting sustainable practices.

Role of Culture in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in India

Culture is essential for achieving sustainable development goals in India, shaping values, beliefs, and practices. Art and culture can raise awareness and foster environmental consciousness, promoting cultural diversity and intercultural dialogue. Cultural festivals, such as the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, attract tourists and generate revenue for the local economy. Art therapy can help treat mental health conditions, while yoga and traditional practices promote physical wellness. However, challenges include proper infrastructure and support mechanisms for artists and cultural practitioners. The government and stakeholders must provide the necessary support and create an enabling environment for art and culture to flourish sustainably, contributing to achieving sustainable development goals in India. Synergies between art, culture, and sustainable development are crucial for promoting sustainable development’s social, economic, and environmental aspects.

Challenges faced in integrating art and culture in development initiatives

The integration of art and culture in development initiatives faces challenges due to a need for more awareness and understanding among policymakers and practitioners. Many projects focus on economic and social development, neglecting art and culture’s crucial role in promoting social cohesion and sustainable development. Insufficient funding limits the production and accessibility of diverse cultural expressions and the preservation and promotion of heritage sites. However, case studies show the transformative power of art and culture in achieving sustainable development goals, fostering social inclusion, raising awareness, and promoting creativity.

Art and culture are essential for achieving sustainable development goals in India. They preserve cultural heritage, promote social inclusion, and drive economic growth in the creative industries. Case studies show that art and culture have positively impacted sustainable development, such as the Khajuraho Dance Festival, which preserved classical Indian dance forms, and the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan campaign, which raised awareness about sanitation and hygiene. By investing in and promoting art and culture, India can make significant progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and a sustainable future for all. Continued support and investment in art and culture are crucial for fostering creativity, preserving heritage, and promoting cultural diversity.

(The writer is a, Assistant Director on deputation with National Gallery of Modern Art, Ministry of Culture, New Delhi)

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• India's Rich Painting Traditions: Top 4 Must-Visit Places

From the pre-historic paintings in rock shelters like Bhimbetka and later ancient caves found in places like Ajanta and Ellora to the sophisticated expressions of the exquisite Mughal-era miniature paintings , to the patachitra of Odisha and the cloth pichhwais of Rajasthan to the modern day renditions during the 19the century Bengal Renaissance, India’s art heritage is a fantastic reflection of the march of time and astonishing diversity of the artist’s metier. Murals, miniatures, paintings on leaves and paintings on cloth, paintings on leather… this heritage is a rich and abiding force which compels the visitors to learn more and more about it on each visit.

Having explored the gorgeous water palaces and pavilions and vibrant bazaars of this historic capital of the Mewar rulers of Rajasthan, making that quick trip to the nearby temple town of Nathdawara comes highly recommended. Nathdwara is a magnet for its beautiful Krishna Temple, in the sanctum of which is enshrined the centuries-old image of the deity, which was rescued from a temple in Mathura from Muslim iconoclasts. But what is interesting here is a new art form which flourished in the bazaars near the shrine called pichhwai. These are wall hangings are paintings rendered on cloth which feature episodes and anecdotes of Krishna’s life. They hung these as a backdrop to the deity–that’s why they are called pichhwai (at the back). Wander around the bazaars near the shrine to buy one. The Metropolitan Museum, in New York, features an 18th century pichhwai on plain weave, dyed cotton painted with pigments and gold leaf.

Goa’s Indo-Portuguese history has distilled the most incredible experiences for the visitor through its churches, forts and temples. But now many visitors get round to focusing their attention on the wealth of art that’s serves as a window into Goa’s past and present. The old churches such as the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount and the Archiepiscopal Palace are unique also for the art of sgraffito. This involves the application of red or black soil to a wall and the design being scratched out and filled in with white lime plaster. The ancient art of kaavi, used on walls of temples and houses, is created by using a paste of red soil and charcoal filled into an etched design. The Santa Monica Monastery features superb art works at the Weeping Cross Chapel. Nuns, strictly restricted from interactions with the outside world, created these in the 17th century. A fabulous treasure trove of rare manuscripts and 18th-century church clothing—the only ones in the world where ivory is used as part of the embroidery, is on display at the Museum of Christian Art .

Calcutt a, the first capital of the 200 year British rule in India, witnessed the glory days of the Bengal Renaissance in art and literature in the 19th century. This gave birth to what is contemporary Indian art closely linked to the works of Gagendranath Tagore, Rabindranath Tagore, Jamini Roy, Amrita Sher-Gil, Ramkinker Baij and Benode Behari Mukherjee. Jorasanko, home of legendary poet Rabindranath Tagore in ‘Black Town’, was a lively hub for this great cultural movement which began in the 19th century. While enjoying the Durga Puja festivities make it a point to visit Kalighat, home to the 19th century Kali temple—which inspired Bengal’s Kalighat- style paintings.

Following the heritage walking trail in Shimla (Simla of yesteryears) is very much on the cards when unveiling the historic past of this summer capital for over a century of the British in India during their 200 year rule. One of the reason’s Shimla was so important was that it provided the perfect retreat from the blistering summers of New Delhi. Its sylvan beauty and cool environs in the foothills of the Himalaya reminded them of ’home’. Also, the natural beauty–of snowy mountains, forests of pine and fir brooks, meadows, and wild dahlias and roses on hillsides–compelled even amateur artists to pick up a paintbrush to capture the exquisite charms of this hill station. Ramble along a Nature Trail today that takes you past the birthplace of a legendary Hindi writer Nirmal Verma ending Sanat Chatterjee’s art gallery where you can enjoy the display of some of his work.

Inspirational arts forms are some of the most alluring attractions of India’s cultural landscape and over the years have lured visitors, with a creative bent of mind from all over the globe. Make sure your next bucket list for travels in India features at least a couple of places renowned for their painterly traditions, such as the open-air gallery known as Shekhawati in Rajasthan, Tanjore in the south and Thangka Paintings in Ladakh.

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Know your heritage: 7 Indian tribal art forms that are world famous

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Know your heritage: 7 Indian tribal art forms that are world famo...

Timesofindia.com | last updated on - dec 26, 2023, 13:38 ist share fbshare twshare pinshare comments ( 0 ), 01 /8 tribal art forms.

India is home to many rich tribal art forms that have been preserved not just by governments, schemes and policies but also by the families. Children are taught about the art forms early on and then later in life about the importance of their preservation. These tribal folk art forms form the essence of India’s rich cultural heritage. A mix of traditions, customs and heritage, tribal art includes stories, folklores, spiritual nature of humans and sometimes the mundane daily life. Here we list 7 famous Indian tribal art forms that have stood the test of time with their excellent preservation.

02 /8 Mandana paintings

An art originating from the state of Rajasthan, Mandana paintings are beautiful wall and floor art done by women of the Meena tribe. Using basic materials like natural pigments and brushes made from twigs, these paintings are made to decorate the courtyards and walls during festivals and special occasions. Mandana paintings are said to bring in prosperity and good fortune and the motifs look stunning on the plain walls with geometric patterns, floral designs and pictures of Gods. (Image: Pinterest)

03 /8 Gond art

With vibrant colours, details and depictions of folklore, Gond Art is done by the Gond tribal community of Madhya Pradesh. Gond art tells the stories of nature, folklore and rituals through drawing of animals, birds and mythical creatures. Using fine lines, scales and dots, Gond artists create art that looks straight out of a fairytale with the chirpy birds and colourful deers. (Image: Pinterest)

04 /8 Pithora paintings

Pithora paintings are generally found in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. They are considered to be sacred art forms and done again on the walls of the house. The Pithoras are an important part of tribal rituals and ceremonies and are done to celebrate life events like weddings and harvests. A typical Pithora painting features 7 horses, gods and different patterns. It is also said that these art forms bring blessings, protection and prosperity to the community as they are an evidence to the bond of tribes and nature. (Image: Pinterest)

05 /8 Bhil painting

Bhil paintings are less about a state and more about the Bhil tribes. They can be found in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat, and are one of the most simple but beautiful pieces of art one will ever encounter. Bhil tribes use natural pigments, brushes and deep, bold lines to draw scenes indicating nature, peace, tribal gods and activities. Bhil paintings are also inspired from many real life events or objects. (Image: Pinterest)

06 /8 Gudna motifs

A very different form of art than the ones mentioned above is the Gudna or Godna motifs. Instead of being a painting done of cloth, floor or walls, Gudna is a unique art form of tattooing or body art. Created by using needle, kumkum and natural colours, Gudna motifs adorn the bodies of tribal men and women and are a symbol of their cultural identity. Different motifs indicate different situations. Some are done on the bravehearts, others to invite fertility, some for better health, etc.

(Image: Tribal Tourism in India)

07 /8 Warli paintings

Dedicated to and centered around Mother nature and her many elements, the Warli paintings are a part of the Warli tribe in Maharashtra. They are simple, beautiful and carry with themselves a rich cultural heritage. They are usually done on mud walls and depict scenes of daily life, rituals and festivities using basic geometric shapes like circles, triangles and squares. The Warli paintings are usually done on a red background with white natural pigment over it. (Image: Pinterest)

08 /8 Madhubani art

Originating from the Mithila region of Bihar, Madhubani is a vibrant and colourful art form which was predominantly and traditionally done by the women. Although with time men too began creating Madhubani paintings, the use of natural dyes and pigments remain the same. The Madhubani depicts mythological tales, religious motifs and scenes from daily life with intricate patterns and bold lines. These paintings, often done on walls, cloth or paper, not only serve as decorative elements but also as a means of storytelling.

(Image: Pinterest)

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7 Indian Artists Depict the Monsoons in All Their Shades and Glory

Meet some amazing Indian artists who talk about their lively monsoon paintings and their thoughts behind the art.

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1. Chandrababu:

“I paint during monsoon because the season reminds me of my childhood days and our duties and responsibilities which made the family bond grow stronger,” he adds.

Photo Credit: Chandrababu

2. ananda das:.

Sharing his thoughts, he says, “During monsoons, the condition of Kolkata roads becomes pathetic. This effects transportation to a large extent and these rickshaw pullers  continue  working for their livelihood.”

Photo Credit: Ananda Das

3. bijay biswaal.

His work was also appreciated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ speech.

Photo Credit: Bijay Biswaal

4. ganesh panda.

I Was a Sex Worker Before Art Changed My Life

Bengaluru-based Shanthi Muniswamy was a sex worker battling depression and discrimination before Aravani Art Project changed her life.

“I believe that monsoon is the best season as we can’t think of our lives without water. The season gives me reasons to paint colourful leaves of the trees and greenery of Indian villages that should create positive vibes in the viewer’s mind,” he says.

5. Avijit Roy

Sometimes pictures say it all. And the paintings by Avijit Roy speak for themselves.

Photo Credit:  indianartideas.in

6. somnath bothe:.

“The fusion of rainy season and historical places in cities and villages constitute the subjects of my paintings. I have my own way of showing love for monsoon creations. My colour schemes are modern and flashy. But this is intentional — to remind us of the importance of historical locations and old buildings in Pune after rain,” he says.

7. Narayan Kumbar

Photo Credit: Narayan Kumbar

All other pictures by artflute.com (arranged with special request), like this story or have something to share write to us: [email protected] , or connect with us on facebook and twitter (@thebetterindia) ., this story made me.

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Homage to Heritage: Why I Spent 25 Years Painting India's Iconic Steam Trains

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Rooftop – Where India Inspires Creativity

The Indian Monsoon Painting – A Seasonal Tryst Of Traditional Art

• July 10, 2023
• Gond art , indian art , miniature art , Miniature Painting , monsoon , Mughal miniature paintings , Warli Art

The lash of rains lifts the scorching heat off the face of the earth, leaving behind a calm and soothing soil, refreshed, energized, and blissful. It is no surprise, that it has the same effect on people and animals too. And because the monsoons have such a visibly emotional influence on almost everyone, it is no surprise, that the monsoon season in India is the perfect setting for the stage for artful expression through paintings, music, dance, and narratives. The Indian monsoon painting is thus a perfect set-up for expression and artists across the years, have been inspired and intrigued by it. But the true magic of rain is that it means different things to different people. Where it might inspire on one hand, on the other, it might be the reason for longing or even pain. 

What do the monsoons even have to do with art? Undoubtedly, the monsoon season is among the most coveted and important seasons in the Indian calendar. It is usually associated with greenery, growth, and lushness. The rains are heartily welcomed by especially rural India and its farmers. The bulbuls and koels flap around, peacocks fan their feathers, and cows and buffaloes laze in lakes. Children make paper boats and splash in puddles. Lovers crave each other. Monsoon thus signifies fertility, brooding, poetry, and romance. And the Indian monsoon paintings are delightful representations of all these ideas and more! 

Natural And Social Landscapes in Indian Monsoon Paintings

Traditional paintings in India have excellently depicted their natural, social, and cultural surroundings. Natural objects, such as trees, animals, flowers, and mountains are common motifs in traditional paintings. Similarly, natural occurrences, including rains, have also found a special place in folk art, alongside the social customs and festivals that are associated with rain.

For instance, this Indian monsoon painting by Gond artist Brajbhushan Dhurve depicts the birds enjoying the rain, whereas the tribal women are busy working through the monsoon.

Similarly, this Warli painting depicts the lifestyle of people during the rains.

Another example is the ‘Behind the Mountains’ series of paintings that highlights the monsoon season in Mewar. Vibrant flowers are in bloom, there is greenery all around, and a buzz of activity with the advent of the rainy season. The flower size is an indication of the significance of the physical environment and its impact on the culture of society.

Spiritual and Courtly Scenes In Indian Monsoon Paintings

The Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Bundi schools of miniature art are fraught with monsoon paintings depicting Radha and Krishna. And within them, there are two distinct moods of the monsoon- “Megh” and “Malhar”. Megh is depicted with the usage of the dark onset of clouds. There is thunder and lightning. On the other hand, Malhar is associated with lighter tones, flowers, and greenery, ladies dressed in colourful clothes on swings, etc.

This Indian monsoon painting in the Allahabad Museum is a good example of the Megh Malhar Raga paintings. The dark clouds are painted above, whereas, Krishna, Radha and the ladies are seen with musical instruments in the lower half of the painting. 

Here is an example of Mughal miniature paintings of Radha and Krishna during rain. Also, note the use of other elements, such as peacocks and birds that are representations of the monsoon season.

Besides, the religious references, many Indian monsoon paintings are also based around the princely courts. For instance, this painting is of Raja Balwant Dev Singh, depicting the court season during the monsoon.

Did you know that there are some Indian monsoon paintings, especially from Udaipur School showing the scientific and practical aspects of rain? For example, ‘A Splendid Land: Paintings from Royal Udaipur’ is an illustrative collection of paintings by 1700 artists across the span of 200 years. Many of these paintings feature the monsoons and how the region’s prosperity is influenced by them. Interestingly, the paintings feature lakes, reservoirs, and rainwater harvesting concepts.

Emotional Expressions

Though the monsoon is a natural phenomenon, it has a huge emotional bearing on people. The miniature Indian monsoon paintings of Rajasthan are one of the finest examples of the varying moods and sentiments of humans during rains. This popular miniature painting of Prince Amar Walking in The Rain is a picture of contentment and peace. Needless to say, the detailing of the painting is fantastic. Whether it is the depiction of the tiny drops of rain falling from the edge of the umbrella, the prince’s feet squashing the wet mud, the colour of the greying clouds above, or the look of tranquillity on his face – the artist has painted a picture to perfection.

But the rains also entice other emotions, one of them primarily being love and romance.

The Season of Longing

Miniature paintings often centred around the Abhisarika. Who is she, you ask? The Abhisarika is the protagonist of the painting—a woman, who is braving all odds to find her lover. But on her way to meet her lover, she meets different challenges. The Varsha Abhisarika, is therefore, when the heavy rain acts as the main hurdle, posing dangers on her way. In this painting of the Varsha Abhisarika, painted by one of the best Pahari miniature artists, Nainsukh, the cloudy, dark rainy night forms the backdrop. The woman in her bright attire has the lightning to worry about from the sky and the snakes on the ground.

Similarly, this painting is another example of nayika surrounded by rain, snakes, and a demon that stops her from meeting her lover.

When Lovers Meet In Indian Monsoon Paintings 

This miniature Malwa School painting called Month Of Bhadon (August-September) has too much going on in a single frame. The raindrops look like a string of pearls dropping from the sky. Surrounded by the rain, the painting focuses on the lovers who finally meet in the month of Bhadon. The month of Bhadon is a reference to the poetic genre called Barahmasa . Barahmasa is the long journey that the woman undertakes over the cycle of different seasons to finally unite with her lover. The transition of her emotions, from the stages of initial courtship to separation to longing to finally meeting her lover runs parallel to the seasonal fluctuations. The month of Bhadon, which is characterised by heavy rain, is thus the month when the Varsha Abhisarika meets her lover.

This particular painting also showcases animals that act as metaphors for the rain. The elephant is akin to large grey clouds that move slowly at the beginning of the rain. The sound of thunder or ‘garaj’ is the sound made by a lion and tiger. 

Indian Monsoons, is a season of love, separation, full blooms, and catharsis! They have been showcased and continue to inspire Indian art. From subtle metaphors, such as peacock and pearl raindrops, to detailed facial expressions of peace or longing, Indian monsoon paintings are excellent artistic expressions of the influence and allegories of one of the most important seasons of the Indian subcontinent.  

At Rooftop, we strive to bring you information and awareness about Indian art. You can also read our related blog post on the best artwork for the monsoon .

Download the Rooftop App from  GooglePlay  or  AppStore  and enroll in our maestro courses!

Discover us on Instagram  @rooftop_app  for all things on traditional Indian art.

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Top Indian destinations to visit for art lovers

The diversity and depth of India's heritage are well known. Every year art lovers from around the world come to India to experience its diverse culture. It is a home to several traditional art forms. If you're passionate about art, fascinated by it, or just a lover of art, you should put these Indian destinations at the top of your bucket list. The following list contains 8 spectacular tourism attractions and art sites in India that art enthusiasts must see.  ... read more

Traditional Madhubani art, commonly referred to as Mithila painting, is centered in the Mithila region of Bihar. It is one of the earliest forms of art. Five subdistricts make up the area, where Madhubani art has been practised for many generations. It's delightful how vibrant the colours are used, and how scenes from nature are shown. The towns in the region are often painted with Madhubani art. It is a must visit place for art lovers to understand the culture and history of Mithila art. (pixabay)

The vibrant art scene of Jaipur, which includes everything from dance, music, and architecture to visual arts and handicrafts, is well known. Art lovers are sure to be excited by the Hawa Mahal and Raj Mandir Cinema. The Ajmer Fort, which has played a significant role in history, culture, and even films, is one of the most spectacular sites. Last but not least, you can go to Jantar Mantar, which is not only lovely but also allows our imaginations to soar into space and gives us a glimpse into a universe beyond our own.(pixabay)

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in India is the Khajuraho Group of Temples in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. It is home to the largest collection of Hindu and Jain temples and is renowned for its  sculptures.  It is worthwhile for art enthusiasts to visit to see the scope and size at which these temples have been built and decorated.(pixabay)

The Vijay Nagar Empire once had Hampi as its capital. Every year, it draws tens of thousands of visitors and art enthusiasts from around the world. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well. The heritage site is home to a number of captivating locations, including the beautiful stone chariot ,queens bath, virupaksha temple, and vijay vittala temple. It is fascinating to see the intricately crafted temples and statues. For those who enjoy art, this is a must-see location.(pixabay)

Sanchi Stupa is the oldest stone structure in India. It was constructed during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the third century BC. There are four entrances surrounding the hemispherical central dome of the Sanchi Stupa, and each one has a wonderfully carved story about the life, birth, and death of Buddha. The stories seem to be speaking to art enthusiasts. It is one of the favourite location for photographers and art enthusiasts.(pixabay)

Andhra Pradesh's Lepakshi is a tiny village. It is a very prominent location for the art enthusiast and lovers . The enormous sculpture of Lord Shiva's Vahana Nandi draws visitors from all around the world who are passionate about art. Its unique feature is the use of a single, sizable granite block in its construction. A 200 kilometre distance separates the art work  from the Veerabhadra Temple.(pixabay)

Bhopal is situated in the heart of India , Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the most beloved destinations for art enthusiasts because of its royal culture, rich legacy, and historical arts. The Chowks, which are bordered with historic mosques and havelis, are the most noticeable aspects of Bhopal's art and culture. The city displays a remarkable fusion of Muslim and Hindu artistic influences. For fans of art, the Bhimbetka cave paintings should not be missed. This site is significant in the history of Indian art since the cave paintings there date back to 8000 BC. In addition, there are lakes, the Bharat Bhawan, and the Tribal Museum.(pixabay)

Rajput, Muslim, and British dominance in the area led to the stunning fusion of civilizations that is Agra. The diversity of Indian culture is well-known around the world, and Agra's cultural heritage is among the richest in the nation because of its intriguing past. The city has been a fertile ground for art, architecture, music, poetry, literature, and crafts for ages thanks to the support of its emperors, particularly the Mughals. It is one of the most significant historical locations in India and is home to the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri are two other UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Agra.(Pixabay)

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10 Prominent Frescoes Of India For A Historical Tour

Fresco of India are one of a kind and the process of making one is equally unique. The painting is created on freshly plastered walls, allowing the painting to sink into the plastered surface and become one with the wall. Many artists have called them ‘ traditional wallpapers ’. 

Being one of the oldest art techniques, a fresco tour to India would be rich in history and local culture. Perhaps the most ancient Indian fresco paintings are found in the Ajanta and Ellora caves . These, which showcase the instances from Buddha’s life, date back to 200 to 600 B.C. The fresco paintings at the Badami Cave Temples , Bagh Cave and Shekhawati Havelis in Rajasthan are one of the oldest. 

While some Frescos were recreationally made and were basic in their technique, others were politically influenced and filled with intent. An example of the latter is this Fresco from 1732 which was drawn in revelry when the Shekhawati Rajputs were defeating and forcing the Mughals out. 

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Let’s map out a Fresco tour in India: 

1. hawa mahal road, jaipur.

On the way to one of the premium tourist destinations of Rajasthan, the Hawa Mahal of Jaipur , one comes across this building. The building stands tall with Frescoed windows. Though now an old structure, because of the nature of Fresco paintings , the windows look bright and colourful as ever.

2. Karauli City Palace, Rajasthan

The city of Karauli in the state of Rajasthan is home to the Karauli City Palace. The Palace, originally built in the 14th century, is now restored to reimpose the colour and beauty of it’s murals, lattice work and stone carvings. In 1348, Yaduvanshi Arjun Pal laid the foundation of the palace. The Yaduvanshi’s trace their lineage all the way back to Lord Krishna. 160 kilometers from the major cities of Jaipur and Agra, the Palace sits regally in a small town, giving your experience a taste of royalty and warmth at the same time! To indulge in this experience, many tourists opt for a camel cart ride to the Palace, which is otherwise easily accessible too. 

3. Nawalgarh, Shekhawati region

This is a Shekhawati Fresco. A unique feature of the Shekhawati Frescoes is that they were all made from natural colours. For black they used kajal , for white they used chalk limestone, for orange they used saffron, for red they used red stone powder, and so forth. Before visiting, it’s imperative to note that Shekhawati is not a demarcated city, it is a region. Nawalgarh is a small town in the Shekhawati region and is locally known as the “ land of Havelis ”. Forts adorn the entire town, making it seem like one is walking in a vast art exhibition

4. Mandawa, Shekhawati Region

Also in the Shekhawati region, is Mandawa. This town carries frescoes which display the transition in the nature of the paintings. All through the town, one sees intricately abstract, religious, colonial and nationalistic frescoes. Since the State Government has been taking initiative in restoring the art of the region, these frescos are lively and are sure to leave you in high spirits! 

5. Alsisar Haveli, Jaipur

The Alsisar Haveli in Jaipur, now a heritage hotel, in true Rajasthani fashion is adorned by several frescoes. The Haveli dates back to the 18th century and is located in the heart of the arid semi-desert town of Alsisar. The Haveli is extremely tourist friendly and is sure to make you feel like a royal yourself.

6. Samode Palace, Chomu

The Samode Palace in this Rajasthani town also proudly displays its frescoes of abstract and intricate patterns. The 475 years old Palace now doubles as a hotel, making it the perfect spot on your Fresco Tour! 

7. City Palace, Jaipur 

The Diwan-e-Khas Hall of the City Palace in Jaipur is truly a spot to behold. If the picture does not convince you, the genuine marble flooring at your feet and marvelous chandeliers and frescoes over your head make the Palace a must visit spot on every trip to India. 

8. Pal Haveli, Jodhpur 

Another hotel on the spot to make your travel plans easy is the Pal Haveli of the blue city of Jodhpur. Still occupied by the royal family, each room is ornate and home to unique frescoes, plus you can see the Mehrangarh Fort from the Haveli! 

9. Brihadeeswarar Temple, Tamil Nadu

Moving out of Rajasthan, the Brihadeeswarar Temple of Tamil Nadu holds some of the first Chola fresco paintings. Located in Thanjavur, the Temple worships a dancing Lord Shiva, called Nataraj . Being on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, the Brihadeeswarar Temple is tourist friendly and easy to find. Depicting the prowess of South Indian kings, the Temple is the first all-granite temple in the world. It has been so calculatively built that it never casts a shadow. 

10. Thanjavur Maratha Palace, Tamil Nadu

If you have put Tamil Nadu on your list for a Fresco Tour to India, be sure to also visit the Thanjavur Maratha Palace ! It was built in the 1530s but even today it is the official residence of the Bhonsle family who ruled Tanjore. Still housing the rulers, it is home to diverse ancient treasures and sculptures. Furthermore, it is one of the few Maratha places in South India and holds one of the oldest libraries in all of Asia. The original main court of the builders – the Nayaks – is now a vibrant art gallery which gives you more than frescoes to admire. Decked with deities and art, it also proudly displays heritage artifacts. 

Contemporary Indian Fresco Artists to Look For:

Other Indian fresco artists that deserve your attention are Shubheccha Deshpand and Sham Kumavat , and Gaurav and Shradha Khanna who will bring the art of fresco to your home!

Follow Rajasthan Studio on Instagram for more amazing art and travel content. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]rajasthanstudio[dot]com. This blog is curated by Rajasthan Studio and written by Samira sarin.

I am a Student of msu university vadodara , Gujarat , so i want to know in this wonderful technique in fesco so can you guide me I want to internship your under…🙏

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Indian Paintings History, techniques & facts

Dr atul kumar singh parmar.

• March 30, 2020
• Activities / Painting

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Paintings are considered the supreme manifestation of one’s feelings and thoughts with the help of colour and brush. Paintings are not merely decoration but the subtle form of art work like other fine and aesthetic arts. Since time imperials the Indian paintings have bar alluring the lovers of art. Indian painting traditions very vary from state to state like Madhuani paintings are different to Kishangarh style. It all happens on account of the varied historical inferences, style of school and the availability of the raw waierals for making the paintings.

What are the oldest Indian Paintings?

As historians believe that the oldest paintings in India are the rock paintings of the early man. Worth mention are the Bhimbetka cave paintings which dates back to 15000 years old traditions of the later age paintings are those which are found on the pats of the Indus valley people which date back to 3 rd century B.C. Many such terracotta pats are found in the excavations carved out in different sites of India and Pakisthan such Poti are preserved in the museum most intact cave paintings can be seen in Ajanta and Ellora caves which date back to 1 to 5 th century A.D.

What are the places to see the oldest paintings of India?

The important places to encounter the oldest Indian tradition of paintings are Ajanta caves which are made of volcanic rock. The Buddhist monks devoted their skill of hammer and chisel on the surface of the stone walls and painted the life and events of Lord Buddha and his teachings. Besides Ajanta, you can find the old specimen of paintings in Bagh, Badari and Ellora also. Badani was the ancient capital of the Chalukya dynast. These are four caves of the 6 to 7 th century. The ceiling of the cave is painted with rich colours displaying Lord Brimha with has swan. The outstanding Bagh caves of Madhya Pradesh made in 4 to 6 th century are vivid and have a magnetic artist. Besides the jog makes caves of Chattisgarh made in the 1 st century contains the oldest interior designs. The paintings are not religious like Ajanta and other places rather they dyrict human emotion and activities at large like damming, singing Kanhari caves located at the outskirts of Mumbai are also of 10 th century A.D.

As historians believe that the oldest paintings in India are the rock paintings of early man. Worth mention are the Bhimbetka cave paintings which date back to 15000 years old traditions of the later age paintings are those which are found on the pats of the Indus valley people which date back to 3 rd century B.C. Many such terracotta pats are found in the excavations carved out in different sites of India and Pakisthan such Poti are preserved in the museum most intact cave paintings can be seen in Ajanta and Ellora caves which date back to 1 to 5 th century A.D.

Read More blog:- Agra Fort History, Timings FAQ’S

Various Techniques of Indian Paintings           

The paintings of India are appraised for their precision, variety of traces and the application of diverse techniques to bring about the exquisite effect. In the kalankari technique the outlines of the paintings are drawn with the help of burnt tamarind things dipped in molasses. The colours obtained from vegetables are applied to make shades. These paintings display mythological figures.

What is Madhubani Painting?

Madhubani technique of paintings cave from Bihar originally it was done on walls, but now you can see it on fabrics and paper also. In this form of painting the straight lines are drawn and filled with bright colours. The Pata Chitra tradition is related to the family of Jagannath temple of Puri in Orissa. While during painting on the surface of cloth or cotton it is made leathery by applying the mixture of Jaggeny, Chalk and quer. In thses painting you find the devotional themes and miracles of dieters.

The thangka paintings of Leh and Ladakh have the theme of Lord Budhha. They are made on silk and used as wall haring. The Shekhawati style of paintings can be with used in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. As you visit the famous havelis of Mandawa and Navalgarh or you visit the places, houses or other buildings, you can find the walls, callings and balconies proudly painted.

Read More Blog:-  Get To Know Before Visiting Taj Mahal

What is Glass painting?

One more painting technique is worth mentioning and it is glass painting. This dates back to 16 th century Maharaja of Tanjore in Tamil Nadu. In this technique the paintings are done on both glass and if ot to be done on board a cloth is applied first. After the sketch is ready the semi precious stone, golf leaf and gift metal is stuck with sawdust and adhesive. The artists find pleasure in making various poses of Lord Krishna.

What is the technique of Phad Indian Paintings?

Phad literally means long piece of cloth or caevass. As the name signifies the paintings are done on long cloth near Bhilwara district of Rajasthan. The principal themes of this painting school are the heroic deeds and the depiction of colour of famous Rajput rulers. In this technique first of all outlines are drawn in block and them bright colours are filled like wisely.

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This post has 6 comments.

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Sở hữu kỳ nghỉ Alma

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