Pichwai Painting: Reviving India’s Ancient Art Form

Pichwai Painting: Reviving India’s Ancient Art Form 

   Have you ever come across a painting so vivid and complex that you feel as though it could talk? This is the exact spellbinding feeling that comes from Pichwai painting, an Indian art that vividly depicts devotion, culture, and heritage. Pichwai is a mesmerizing glimpse into the exquisite traditions of India’s fine arts and is sure to pique the interest of even the most casual of cultural enthusiasts. 

In this blog, we dwell deeper into the origins, techniques, symbolism, and evolution of Pichwai painting. We also let you know where to experience the art and how you can learn it for yourself. Pichwai is fascinating, so let us dive head-first into it. 

What are Pichwai Paintings? 

   One of the famous forms of Indian paintings, Pichwai emerged in Nathdwara, Rajasthan over four hundred years ago. It is an intricate art form dedicated to the worship of Lord Krishna, specifically in his Shrinathji form. The term ‘Pichwai’ translates to ‘that which hangs at the back.’ These paintings were initially used as temple backdrops behind idol deities, hence the name.

Pichwai art displays many intricate pieces that craft a holistic understanding and loving view of art. It combines creativity and devotion to reflect scenes from Lord Krishna’s life, especially those depicting his worship such as Janmashtami, Sharad Purnima, and the Govardhan Puja. The essence of Krishna is captured in these paintings that are created with vibrant colours, gold detailing, and plenty of exquisite storytelling.

Comprehending the Steps Involved in Pichwai Painting

   It is divine detailing and intricacy that goes into Pichwai that makes it such an experience – it simply isn’t painting. It requires a culture to be a part of the artist, patience, and utmost devotion towards the craft. Here is a look behind the curtain of these pieces of art:

1). Materials & Mediums

   Traditionally, weaved cotton and silk fabric are used to create different pichwai paintings. To achieve its signature colour, artists use a selection of unique dyes made from the extracts of flowers, stones, and minerals. Gold and silver leaves are then placed onto the artwork to provide it with a touch of divinity. Ranging from stretched canvas cloth or handmade paper of any suitable size, brushes, natural colours or artificial colours and knowledge of drawing shapes, faces and various elements in the pichwai style is essential to start the painting for any beginner.

2). Colours 

   Deep colours of red, yellow and blue reign supreme in the paintings. These three colours are not simply there for aesthetics to please the eyes. They hold meaning. To depict Krishnas strong spiritual energy, the colours are used to also signify his deep connection to the ocean, the sky, and his gold-like celestial body.

3). Method 

a). Sketching: The first step of creating pichwai involves sketching. An outline of the desired design is drawn with pencil or charcoal.

b). Layering Colours: To achieve each figure, an artist first sketches using stroke-by-stroke layering whereby every stroke is deliberate and intricate. The combination of various colours gives a beautiful and serene look to the painting.

c). Detailing: This stage dwells more on the outlines in finer details like ornaments, flowers, and expression of the transcendent Krishna. 

d). Final Touch: The embossing of gold leaf traces and borders the artwork which adds a shimmering feel to the tale of devotion.

These are all meticulous actions that, along with other factors such as size, can make the final product exponentially become time inefficient. Some large scale Pichwai paintings can take months, and even years to finish.

The Symbolism Behind Pichwai Art

   What makes Pichwai different from the others are the sacred symbols put into each element so as to make it more unique and intricately distinct. The symbolism used in pichwai art are:

1). Worship of Lord Krishna

    This painting serves as a depiction of worship which lies at the heart of Pichwai. It is a Pichwai painting that goes end entrusted to devotees of Shrinathji to be adored during festive seasons, hung in temples behind the idol “He never ages”. 

2). Nature and Seasons

  Elements like lotuses, peacocks, and cows have recurring roles in Pichwai paintings. The lotus symbolizes purity while cows stand for innocence and devotion to Krishna. These floral and faunal motifs also depict the seasons and contribute to the celebration.

3). Cultural Narratives

   Pichwai as an art form is a visual representation, which depicts the life of Krishna, including but not limited to his divine acts, like the most popular one of raising the Govardhan Hill and dancing with the Gopi’s under the Moonlight. These actions are called leelas.

4). The Evolution of Pichwai

   Pichwai, along with numerous classical art forms, has witnessed evolution over centuries and changes within its core essence. This art has evolved to a greater extent from Nathdwara , a small town in Rajasthan to modernized cities in India. Today visualization of the modern pichwai art can also be observed in metro cities.

5). Traditional Roots

   For decades, the temple artists in Nathdwara created Pichwai paintings to go deep into the social and cultural values of the niche within the temple’s vicinity. This art also evolved traditionally in many other parts of the country founding its strong traditional roots and foundation.

6). Modern Revival

   Currently, some Pichwai artists focus on blending the traditions with modern aesthetics, while other painters embrace wall-hangings and natural pigments. Innovation can be seen in canvas paintings, stationery designs, and even digital prints as they are more accessible. 

Countless NGOs and collectives are working to save the lost art by teaching the youth and displaying the piece of art in international exhibitions and galleries. With all these moves, Pichwai has gotten the exposure that it truly deserves.

Where can you observe Pichwai?

   Are you looking to acquire this beautiful art style first hand or spruce up your house with a painting of it? This is where you can find it: 

Nathdwara, Rajasthan

   Authentic pieces are available for purchase at various workshops and stores in Nathdwara, where Pichwai art originated. And don’t forget to stop by the renowned Shrinathji temple, which houses original Pichwai paintings.

Online Places 

   Certified artists from all over the world and specialized shops offer authentic pieces on websites like Etsy and Pichwai.com. There are many other websites which sell the printed or handmade pichwai paintings and you can purchase from them according to your requirements.

Art Galleries  

   Pichwai works can easily be found in Indian private galleries located in big cities such as Mumbai and in National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Delhi. Pichwai painting is more than just a form of art; it is an amalgamation of culture, devotion, and creativity. It tells a detailed story with brilliant technique and rich symbolism, making it a legacy that inspires and overcomes borders. Pichwai has something antique yet timeless for any collector, history enthusiast or anyone looking for intricate beauty.  

How To Practice Pichwai Painting? 

   Creating your own painted masterpiece sounds tempting, does it not? Well, the good news here is that there is an increase in workshops and classes regarding how to paint Pichwai. Online and physically hosted workshops are often organized by artists who understand Pichwai art well. The basics are normally expanded on in these like sketching Krishna’s form or creating lotus patterns. you can also find various paintings related to the life events of Lord Krishna.

For those serious students wanting to practice this specific art style should apply to programs in India specialized in Rajasthan or in academies promoting Indian culture. Online communities like the ones that exist on Facebook and Instagram allow for interaction with professionals, share your progress and seek advice.