Godna Paintings: Origin, History & More

India is the land of an intriguing history of art forms that have evolved over centuries and imparted a unique traditional heritage to our country. Godna art is a tribal art that has its roots in the Gond tribe of Chhattisgarh. (1)
This Chhattisgarh tribal art is originally a form of body tattooing that involves the use of natural dyes and some traditional tools to make various patterns on the body. The Godna art designs are an embodiment of the cultural prevailments, personal preferences, social and historical nuances etc. The respective designs usually entail bold lines, geometric patterns, various motifs etc. The Godna art designs are a powerful way of expressing a person’s views and beliefs pictorially.  
The word ‘Godna’ literally translates into tattooing in Hindi. Over the years, this art form has evolved into various other forms of craft while preserving the pristine nature of designs. Godna paintings are one such rendition of the traditional Gondna art that has gained widespread popularity across the masses. 

Image credit:- The Times of India

Materials Used In Godna Art

When we talk about Godna paintings, the use of the following materials can be attributed to the use of this particular art form:

• Tools Made From Natural Materials  

Traditionally bamboo sticks, twigs, leaves, etc., were used for doing Godna art. Over the years, artisans have started using brushes made from natural materials to make Godna Madhubani paintings and other forms of Godna art. 

• Natural Dyes

Godna paintings are usually made from natural dyes which refer to colours derived from natural sources such as extracts from flowers, leaves, turmeric, henna etc. 

• The Desired Base 

In addition to skin tattoos, Godna folk art is also being practised in many other ways such as Godna paintings on fabric, paper etc. The artisan can get the desired base of their choice and make designs at their discretion. 

A Contemporary Take On Godna Paintings 

Girna Madhubani paintings are special types of paintings that combine Godna art with Madhubani paintings which are a folk art form from Bihar. (2) These paintings are characterised by bold outlines and vibrant designs. The Godna Madhubani Painting by Shravan Paswan in iTokri is a great embodiment of the Thai stellar art form and can be a great addition to your home interiors. Moreover, the Godna Madhubani Handpainted Stainless Steel masala box, casseroles and canisters on iTokri are also breathtaking and could be an excellent addition to your serve ware. For the fashion-forward, now you can enjoy this intricate painting in hand-painted dupattas as well. 

Conclusion

Indian handicrafts and art forms are a sight to behold in terms of their aesthetic appeal and charm. When the endowments of our traditional cultural heritage are taught in our homes, through artefacts or accents, the results are gorgeous! 

The Godna style of Madhubani paintings is super alluring and can be used to decorate your living space and give it a bright, warm and inviting appeal. 

FAQs on Godna Art

• Godna painting is from which state?

Godna art is from Chhattisgarh and Madhubani paintings stem from Bihar. The beautiful Godna Madhubani paintings personify the cultural heritage and creative excellence of both these states. 

• What is Godna Madhubani painting?

A Godna Madhubani painting beautifully amalgamates the allure of Godna art and Madhubani paintings. These paintings are made from natural dyes using traditional tools. The artisans depict mythological figures, motifs, geometric patterns and various other images through their designs.