What Is Pattachitra? Odisha’s Ancient Art of Storytelling
- CAMI Info
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
India's artistic landscape is rich with stories painted in vivid colors and intricate details—and one of the most enchanting among them is Pattachitra art of Odisha. This ancient art form beautifully blends mythology, devotion, and creativity, offering a window into India's cultural past. With every brushstroke, Pattachitra artists tell stories of gods, legends, and festivals, keeping alive a tradition that has thrived for over a thousand years.
Origin of Pattachitra
The word Pattachitra is derived from two Sanskrit words—patta, meaning cloth, and chitra, meaning picture. Together, they refer to "pictures on cloth." This art form dates back to the 12th century and is closely associated with the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. The chitrakars (artists) of this tradition have passed down their skills through generations, preserving the techniques and stories embedded in their craft.
What Makes Pattachitra Unique?
Pattachitra is not just a painting style—it’s a form of visual storytelling. These paintings often depict episodes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and stories of Lord Jagannath, Krishna, and other deities. The artwork is known for its:
Detailed borders
Flat, bold colors
Mythological themes
Natural pigments and materialsArtists use natural colors made from crushed stones, seashells, and herbs. The base is traditionally made of cloth treated with a mixture of chalk and gum to make it firm and paint-ready.
Styles Within Pattachitra
While Odisha is most famous for its version, there are variations of Pattachitra found in West Bengal too. The Odisha style typically features more detailed iconography, especially related to Jagannath and Vaishnavite traditions. Bengal’s version, often sung along with folk music, uses scrolls and is known as Chalchitra or Patua.
Why Should Children Learn About Pattachitra?
Introducing children to Indian folk arts like Pattachitra not only teaches them about art techniques, but also helps them connect with cultural heritage and traditional storytelling. It encourages observation, patience, and creativity while giving them a sense of pride in Indian history and mythology.
At the Children's Art Museum of India (CAMI)
At Children’s Art Museum of India, we believe in nurturing young minds through art and culture. Our platform allows children to explore, create, and showcase their art inspired by traditional forms like Pattachitra. They can also submit their work, get featured, and even sell their art through CAMI!
Encourage your child to dive into India’s rich artistic traditions—because every masterpiece begins with curiosity.
Submit your colorful creation to us and share your artistic journey!
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