Pichwai art is a traditional style of painting that originated in the state of Rajasthan in India. The word "pichwai" comes from the Hindi words "pich" meaning "back" and "wai" meaning "hanging." This art form is traditionally used to decorate the backdrops of Hindu temples, specifically for Lord Krishna. Pichwai paintings are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colours, and spiritual themes. Today Pichwai painting of Rajasthan has amassed immense popularity across the world. In this blog, let us learn about Pichwai painting’s history and know about some of the famous artists of this art.
History & Origin of Pichwai Paintings
Pichwai painting’s history can be traced back to the 17th century. Pichwai art is believed to have originated in the town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan, which is home to the famous Shrinathji Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is depicted as a child in the form of Shrinathji. The temple is considered to be one of the most sacred places in India for followers of the Pushti Marg, a sect of Hinduism that venerates Lord Krishna. Thus this art form is also popularly known as Shreenath ji painting or Shrinathji Pichwai painting.
The art of Pichwai painting was developed by the artists who lived in and around the Nathdwara region. These artists were inspired by the religious stories and myths associated with Lord Krishna, and they began creating intricate paintings that depicted scenes from his life.
Themes & Motifs of Pichwai painting
One of the distinguishing features of Pichwai paintings is their intricate design. These paintings have distinct features of a heavier body and large elongated eyes, with a broad nose of Shrinathji, similar to the features of the idol at the temple. The paintings are often filled with details, such as flowers, animals, and geometric patterns, which are arranged in a symmetrical and balanced composition. One of the most famous motifs of this art form is the Pichwai cow painting against the backdrop of flowers which is also called ‘The Kamdhenu’.
Pichwai paintings have different themes which keep changing according to the seasons. The painting depicting pink lotuses in summer contrasts with the one for Sharad Purnima, which features a bright full moon in a night scene. Other themes like Raas Leela, Holi, and Annakut (Govardhan Puja) are also present and showcased during their respective occasions.
(image credit:- Pinterest)
A typical Pichwai painting has 24 boxes around called swaroops, each consisting of Krishna, gopis and various other elements. Despite the various figurines and elements a Pichwai painting is a sheer example of aesthetic beauty with balance.
Technique & Materials used in Pichwai Art
The colours used in Pichwai paintings are also a significant aspect of this popular art form. The paintings typically use bright colours, such as red, yellow, and green, which are believed to symbolize the energy and vitality of Lord Krishna. The paintings were typically created on cloth or paper using natural dyes made from plants and minerals like saffron, gold, silver, zinc, coal, indigo etc.
Spiritual Significance of Shreenath Ji painting
Pichwai paintings have a spiritual significance in Indian culture. They are often used to decorate the backdrops of Hindu temples, where they serve as a visual representation of the stories and myths associated with Lord Krishna. The paintings are typically created in a series, which tells a story or depicts a specific theme associated with Lord Krishna. For example, a series of Pichwai paintings might depict the different seasons of Lord Krishna's life, from his childhood to his adulthood.
(image credit:- Pinterest)
Some of the Famous artists of Pichwai Art
There have been many talented Pichwai artists over the years, but here are a few of the most famous and respected:
#1 Kalyanmal Sahu
Kalyanmal Sahu is a national award-winning traditional Pichwai artist whose work has been recognized for his innovative use of colour and design.
#2 Mohanlal Kumawat:
Mohanlal Kumawat is well-known for his Pichwai art and has won many awards for his work. His paintings are known for their intricate designs and beautiful use of colour.
#3 Nathu Lal Verma:
Nathu Lal Verma is known for his beautiful depictions of Lord Krishna and his use of gold leaf in his paintings.
#4 Rajendra Sharma:
Rajendra Sharma is a contemporary Pichwai artist who has gained recognition for his innovative designs and use of natural dyes.
#5 Vijay Sharma:
Vijay Sharma is a well-known Pichwai artist who has won many awards for his work. His paintings are known for their intricate designs and beautiful use of colour.
Cultural Value & Popularity of Pichwai Paintings in Modern Times
In addition to their use in Hindu temples, Pichwai paintings have become popular as a decorative art form. Pichwai cow painting is often used to decorate homes and other indoor spaces, where they serve as a visual reminder of the beauty and spirituality of Hindu culture. Pichwai art is still quite popular among traditional Indian paintings.
Many artists in Rajasthan continue to create Pichwai paintings today, using traditional techniques and materials. The Nathdwara painting school, in Rajasthan, today, is the major school where Pichwai painting is still taught through the traditional guru-shishya parampara system.
With rising popularity today you can even find these intricate Pichwai art on clothing like sarees and dupattas. Bandhni Pichwai saree and Pichwai Digital printed sarees have become a trend for festive wear.
Challenges Faced by Pichwai Artists
One of the challenges facing the Pichwai art form is the availability of natural dyes. The traditional dyes used in Pichwai paintings are made from plants and minerals, which are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain. As a result, some artists have begun to use synthetic dyes, which are more readily available but do not have the same vibrancy as natural dyes.
Another challenge facing Pichwai artists is competition from other art forms. As India becomes more modernized, traditional art forms like Pichwai painting are facing competition from more contemporary forms of art. Some artists are adapting to this changing landscape by incorporating new techniques and styles into their work.
Conclusion
Despite these challenges, Pichwai art continues to be an important part of Indian culture. The intricate designs and vibrant colours of Pichwai paintings have captured the imagination of people around the world, and the art form continues to inspire new generations of artists. By preserving and promoting the traditional techniques and materials used in Pichwai painting, we can ensure that this beautiful and spiritually significant art form continues to thrive for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pichwai Art
What is Pichwai painting?
Pichwai paintings are intricate paintings dedicated to Lord Shrinathji of Nathdwara in Rajasthan. They typically have 24 swaroops of Krishna, gopis and other natural elements.
What are the rules of Pichwai painting?
Traditional Pishwai art had 24 boxes around called swaroops, each consisting of Krishna, gopis and various other elements. But modern Pichwai theme paintings also contain only natural elements. So there are no fixed rules for Pichwai painting.
Pichwai Painting is from which state?
Pichwai painting is from the state of Rajasthan in northwest India.
Which are some famous Pichwai Paintings?
Some of the famous Pishwai Paintings are
- Shrinathji in Black & Gold
- Ras Leela – Krishna with Radha
- Giriraja Pichwai – depicting Lord Krishna carrying Govardhana mountain on his little finger
- Gopashtami – depicting Lord Krishna playing the flute around his herd of cows
- Sharad Purnama Antique Pichwai painting – Krishna with Radha on a swing on a full moon night
When and where did Pichwai Painting originate?
Pichwai painting originated in the town of Nathdwara in Rajasthan in northwest India in the 17th Century.
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