Blogs on Pattachitra

Odisha’s love for painting runs deep—etched into rocks, carved in temples, and lovingly brushed onto sacred scrolls. From prehistoric pictographs in the Kalahandi hills to ancient frescoes in Udayagiri and Khandagiri, art in this land has always told a story. Over time, this ritual-based art expanded beyond the temple walls. Today, Pattachitra is not only a vibrant symbol of Odisha’s spiritual heritage—it is a treasured Indian artform, preserved through generations of temple artists and cultural stewards.

Step into the world of Pattachitra, one of India’s oldest living art forms — a sacred painting tradition that has thrived for centuries in Odisha and West Bengal. With every stroke painted by hand on cloth, this intricate style tells stories of gods, legends, and rituals, using only natural pigments and ancestral techniques. In a time of fast art, Pattachitra stands as a timeless testament to patience, devotion, and cultural depth.

Traditional art is an aspect of people's culture, with skills and knowledge passed down through generations. It largely spread through word of mouth or by following in the footsteps of a cultural group. Patta painting is regarded, as an important form of Odia painting, which developed in the 12th century at the Jagannath temple in Puri. Jagannath temple has been a centre of Orissan art and culture. Puri and Raghurajpur are considered a realm of myths and gods, as well as folklore of Pattachitra. This style evolved under the patronage of the Ganga kings and the Bhoi Dynasty's king. The painting's objective was to popularize the Jagannath worship among the millions of pilgrims that visited Puri. The origin of the Patachitra paintings can be traced back to the 8th century AD and, is considered as one of the earliest forms of indigenous paintings. The term Pattachitra is derived from the Sanskrit words patta, which means canvas, and Chitra, which means painting. Thus, Pattachitra creates a scroll painting on canvas that is manifested, by rich colourful application, innovative motif and designs, and depiction of a simple theme, generally mythological in depiction.

Pattachitra is an ancient Indian art form from Odisha, known for its bold lines, natural colors, and historical themes. These scroll or cloth paintings often depict Hindu deities like Jagannatha, Ganesha, and Radha-Krishna, and are used in rituals, festivals, and storytelling. Over time, Pattachitra has expanded into apparel, palm leaf etchings, and contemporary home decor. It remains a living folk tradition, celebrated for its beauty, spiritual symbolism, and regional heritage.