Painting of Chhattisgarh | Chhattisgarh State PSC (CGPSC) Preparation: All subjects - CGPSC (Chhattisgarh) PDF Download

Introduction

• Indian paintings have transitioned from religious depictions to a fusion of cultures and traditions.
• They reflect a continuum of artistic expression from ancient times to the present day.
• Various external influences, such as Greco-Roman, Iranian, and Chinese, have contributed to the development of Indian painting.

Classification of Indian Paintings

Indian Paintings are broadly categorized into mural paintings and miniature painting.

• Mural paintings are extensive artworks found on solid structures like the Ajanta Caves and Kailashnath temple, also known as wall paintings.
• Miniature paintings are intricate works created on small-scale surfaces like paper and cloth.

Paintings of Chhattisgarh

• Paintings are perhaps the most expressive form of handicrafts in Chhattisgarh, capturing the essence of the life, traditions, and culture of the tribal people in the region. Each painting reflects the traditional tribal rituals, with origins in the central tribal regions of India, which includes areas that now fall within the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
• Chhattisgarh is home to various types of folk paintings, each representing the unique art and culture of the state.
  Among the most famous are:
  • Traditional Wall Paintings of Chhattisgarh: These paintings depict scenes of traditional tribal rituals, often associated with the celebration of customary ceremonies. The walls and floors are adorned with vibrant colors, creating a striking and picturesque view.
  • Pithora Paintings: A distinctive form of traditional painting, Pithora paintings are typically created during significant life events such as childbirth, marriages, and other ceremonies related to wish fulfillment.
• The tribal people of Chhattisgarh regard these paintings as symbols of good fortune, and over time, they have become an integral part of their lives and culture. The traditional paintings of Chhattisgarh are renowned as rural forms of art, reflecting the deep cultural heritage of the region.

Common Feature of Tribal – Wall Painting of Chhattisgarh

Wall Painting

• The tradition of wall painting has been passed down through generations, originating from prehistoric times and continuing into the present day. As societies transitioned from forest-dwelling communities to agricultural-based societies, the art of painting remained a vital part of life, tradition, and culture. It served as a medium to convey traditional beliefs and cultural values through art.
• Wall painting is a common cultural practice among many agricultural and forest-dwelling societies. These paintings are often created to invoke the blessings of the gods for various purposes, such as ensuring fertile soil, maintaining the health of animals used in farming, granting healthy offspring after marriage, and blessing newly constructed homes. Paintings on the walls of religious buildings often depict humanity's quest to understand the larger universe, natural life, and spiritual power.

Current Tradition of Wall Painting in Various Tribal Regions

• In modern times, wall paintings or murals continue to be a significant cultural expression in various tribal regions. The ground for these paintings is typically the wall or stone of a cave, with paint being applied directly onto the wall plaster. To ensure the paint adheres well to the plaster, colors are often applied to wet plaster, allowing them to fuse with the surface.
• In many tribal regions and villages in India, women traditionally apply wet lime paint to the dry mud walls of their homes. Lime acts as a natural disinfectant, preventing ants and termites from inhabiting the walls. However, since no adhesive is used, the paint tends to flake and must be reapplied each season, particularly after the monsoons, just before festivals like Dussehra and Diwali.
• In regions like Sarguja, Chhattisgarh, wall paintings are also commonly done during ceremonial functions, such as marriages, where they play a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life of the community.

Rock Art Sites and Paintings of Chhattisgarh

• The first discovery of rock art in Chhattisgarh was made in 1910 by C.W. Anderson, an engineer with the Bengal/Nagpur Railways, who was assisted by C.J. Wellington from 1910 to 1913. The earliest mention of such work, particularly at Singhanpur in Raigarh District, was documented in 1918 by Anderson. Subsequent studies by P. Brown (1923), A.N. Dutta (1927), M. Ghosh (1932), L.P. Pandey (1933), D.H. Gordon (1939), J.P. Gupta (1960, 1967), P. Mitra (1961), S.K. Pandey (1969), and V.S. Wakankar (1973) have significantly enriched our understanding of rock art in this region.
• Chhattisgarh is abundant in rock paintings, with examples ranging from the Mesolithic to the Historical period, and some even dating back to prehistoric times. These rock paintings offer fascinating insights into the life, culture, traditions, and art of early human societies.

Notable Rock Art Sites in Chhattisgarh:

• Gotitola (Kanker District): Scenes depicting relationships (such as Ram, Sita, and Laksman) and figures of tree leaves and palm impressions.
• Limdariha (Bastar District): Depictions of human and animal figures.
• Singhanpur (Raigarh District): Features include ladder men, mermaids, animal figures, hunting scenes, and depictions of kangaroos and giraffes.
• Bhanwarkhol: Includes images of bison, mermaids, bears, hunting scenes, geometric patterns, and the swastika symbol.
• Udkunda (Kanker District): Palm and feet impressions, and animal figures, particularly in areas known as Dewata Ki Kachahari, Chanda Pathara, and Adaya Pahar.
• Kherkheda (Kanker District): Depictions of animal and human figures, palm impressions, and human figures in areas like Balerao, Naukar Gudara, and Gadia Gudara.
• Chitwa Dongri (Durg District): Features Chinese figures, dragons, and scenes of agricultural activity.

Pithora Painting

• Pithora paintings hold deep cultural significance for the tribes of Chhattisgarh, serving as much more than just colorful images on walls. They symbolize the arrival of auspicious occasions, such as weddings, childbirth, or festivals, within a family or community.
• As an art form, Pithora paintings express the collective joy and celebration of a community. The vibrant colors and energetic figures in these paintings mirror the sentiments of their creators. The essence of a Pithora painting lies in its earthy quality, with themes and execution that reflect the ethnicity and rural roots of India.
• The materials used in creating Pithora paintings are also distinctive. The colors are prepared by mixing pigments with milk and liquor made from the Mahuda tree, making the art form a true reflection of the community's enthusiasm and spirit.