Artisan Community: Pattachitra Painters of Puri (Chitrakaras)
GI Category: Handicraft
Based on Hindu mythology and specially inspired by Jagannath and Vaishnava sect, Orissa Pattachitra is an ancient folk art form of rural Orissa that has been in existence for many centuries.
Pattachitra is a living art having its roots to the ancient period of Mohenjo-Daro Civilization. The Word Pata comes from the Sanskrit word Patta meaning “A Piece of Cloth” and Chitra meaning painting.
Orissa Pattachitra flourished with the construction of the famous Jagannath Temple at Puri in 12th century. The Cult of Jagannath used patta painting to spread faith throughout Orissa.
Raw Materials
Patta :Traditionally, the Cloth on which painting is done is prepared by pasting layers of cloths with the help of glue made from tamarind seeds. The Surface is mixed with rice powder to make the cloth stiff and finally polished with stone. At present Tussar silk is also used as canvas.
Colours :Natural colours extracted from flowers, leaves, fruits, roots.
Style The motifs used in the paintings symbolizes the different dance possess of Gotipua and Odissi, the lines are bold and clean and angular and sharp.
Themes Incidents in Krishna life, vishnu avatar, kamasutra, epic tales of Ramayana and Mahabharata.
