The History of Odia Pattachitra: A Legacy of Art and Devotion

Sanjay Bhatt 

Odia Pattachitra is one of the oldest and most revered traditional art forms of India, originating in the eastern state of Odisha. This exquisite painting style, rich in mythological narratives and intricate detailing, has been practiced for centuries and is deeply connected to Odisha’s cultural and religious heritage.

Birth of Odia Pattachitra

The roots of Pattachitra trace back over a thousand years, with its origins deeply linked to the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The word Pattachitra is derived from Sanskrit—"Patta" meaning cloth and "Chitra" meaning painting. This art form is believed to have emerged around the 12th century, closely associated with the rituals of Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of Odisha.

One of the earliest traditions of Pattachitra painting began with the temple’s Anasara ritual. Every year, after the Snana Yatra (ceremonial bath) of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, the deities remain unseen for 15 days, believed to be recovering from a fever. During this period, the temple priests place paintings of the deities on the Ratnavedi (altar), which serve as temporary representations. These paintings, known as Anasara Pati, are a special category of Pattachitra, marking the sacred connection between the art and the temple traditions.

The Evolution and Spread of Pattachitra

Initially, Pattachitra paintings were created solely for temple use, depicting deities, religious stories, and mythological episodes. However, with time, the craft expanded beyond temple rituals and became a celebrated folk art practiced in homes and workshops across Odisha.

Some of the most famous themes depicted in Pattachitra include:

Jagannath Triad: Inspired by Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.

Dashavatara: The ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Krishna Leela: Scenes from the life of Lord Krishna.

Ramayana and Mahabharata Episodes: Narratives from Hindu epics.

Panchatantra and Folk Tales: Moral and didactic stories.

Pattachitra painting has also influenced other Odia crafts, including Ganjapa (traditional playing cards), Talapatra Chitra (palm-leaf engraving), and Tassar silk painting.

Great Craftsmanship of Pattachitra

Materials and Techniques

The creation of a Pattachitra painting is a labor-intensive process that involves great skill, patience, and traditional techniques. The steps include:

1. Preparation of the Canvas

Traditionally, patta (cloth) is used as the base.

Cotton cloth is coated with a mixture of chalk and tamarind seed gum, making it firm and smooth.

The surface is polished with stone to create a fine texture for painting.

2. Use of Natural Colors

Pattachitra artists, known as Chitrakars, use only natural pigments extracted from minerals and plants.

White: Conch shell powder.

Black: Burnt coconut shells or lamp soot.

Red: Hingula (cinnabar).

Yellow: Haritala (orpiment).

Blue: Indigo.

Green: Extracted from leaves.

Gold and silver were traditionally used for temple paintings.

3. Fine Brushwork and Detailing

Brushes are handmade using animal hair, with varying thickness for intricate detailing.

The paintings are known for their bold outlines, detailed motifs, and absence of empty space.

The figures are often depicted with elongated eyes, elaborate headgear, and expressive postures, showcasing the distinct style of the art.

4. Lacquer Coating and Preservation

The final artwork is coated with a layer of lacquer, making it durable and glossy.

Some paintings are mounted on wooden panels, coconut shells, or palm leaves, adding to their uniqueness.

Famous Centers of Pattachitra Art

The heritage villages of Odisha have nurtured this ancient craft for centuries. Some of the most notable centers include:

Raghurajpur (Puri District): The most famous village for Pattachitra, home to generations of master artisans.

Dandasahi and Nayakapatna (Puri District): Renowned for their temple paintings and palm-leaf engravings.

Parlakhemundi (Gajapati District): Known for unique variations of the art.

Pattachitra in Modern Times

Though Pattachitra has remained rooted in its traditional themes, it has adapted to contemporary demands. Today, Pattachitra is painted on silk, sarees, wooden boxes, and even decorative home items. It has gained national and international recognition, with artists being honored with awards like the Padma Shri and National Handicrafts Awards.

The Odisha government and various cultural organizations have taken initiatives to promote and preserve this art form through training programs, exhibitions, and digital platforms.

"In 2018, Pattachitra, along with the wall paintings of the Raja Rani Temple, was included in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, highlighting its global cultural significance. Additionally, in 2000, Raghurajpur village—famous as a hub of Pattachitra artists—was declared India’s first heritage village by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).

Despite these recognitions, India does not have a specific "classical" status for visual arts, unlike classical dance or classical music. However, Pattachitra continues to gain national and international recognition, emphasizing its importance and enduring legacy."

Conclusion

Odia Pattachitra is not just an art form but a living tradition that embodies devotion, storytelling, and exquisite craftsmanship. Passed down through generations, it continues to mesmerize the world with its intricate details, rich mythological themes, and vibrant color palette. Whether in temples or modern homes, Pattachitra remains a timeless expression of Odisha’s artistic legacy.