The art of every country tells the tale of the traditions and cultures of its government. India stands amongst the top nations that have received much appreciation and recognition due to traditional Indian artworks.
It is a land of varied and distinct art forms. In fact, in India, almost every region used to practice a particular kind of art form, which the natives of that region used to develop.
Art in India is practiced in carvings, embroideries, paintings, drawings, and many other ways. However, in today’s world, which is primarily influenced by western culture, it has become challenging to retain the significance of Indian art, culture, and tradition even in India.
Hence, many beauteous and unique Indian art forms are almost on the verge of losing their existence. Whether urban or rural, artists hardly practice these art forms now as their demand needs to be improved.
Nonetheless, in this blog post, we have mentioned some of the most traditional and exquisite art forms which are not known to many and are getting waved off in this cyclone of modernity. Take a look!
#1. Manjusha Paintings
This painting style originated from Anga Pradesh which was earlier known as Bihar. Apparently, this art form was used as a means of storytelling.
A series of paintings conveyed a story by displaying these illustrations. Earlier, these paintings were only made during the Bishahari festival.
This festival is dedicated to the god of snakes. This festival is celebrated in the Baghalpur region. However, it was only at the time of British rule that this kind of Indian painting started receiving immense love and recognition.
After that, it rapidly started fading away in the 20th century. The Bihar government is directing its actions to revive the craft. The government is also thinking of patenting it as Bhagalpur folk art.
#2. Puppetry
This traditional Indian art form has existed in India for over 3000 years. Art has also been the best source of recreation for Indians before the advent of the 20th century.
This art form was developed when there was no technological advancement in India. However, now television has replaced puppetry shows not just in urban areas but also in rural areas.
There are many puppetry art forms that not even Indians are aware of. Kathputhli in Rajasthan, shadow puppetry in Kerala, and Kundhei in Rajasthan were once adored by the people of these regions.
Gradually, the prominence of this art form decreased, and now one hardly sees any practicing puppetry.
Efforts by some schools and NGOs have been made to revive the popularity of this distinguished Indian art, but all have gone in vain.
#3. Dokhra Handicraft
This unique handicraft technique has existed for more than 4000 years in India. The first masterpiece of Dhokra handicraft is believed to be the dancing girl of Mohenjo-Daro.
The Bastar district of Chhattisgarh is still home to many tribes practicing this intricate Indian art form. They use mold motifs. Not just in the domestic market, but the demand for them is high in foreign markets too.
People get enticed by the simplistic approach which these handicrafts use. Although such handicrafts have always been in high demand, the challenge here is the lack of native people practicing these handicrafts.
Moreover, they cannot meet the market because the demand is high, and everything is produced manually without any involvement of technology and machines.
#4. Roghan Painting
The technique of making this painting is known only to the Khatri family, which resides in the Kutch area of Rajasthan.
More than seven generations of the family have practiced this painting style, and now only six are doing this. This will be the last generation who will be making these paintings.
According to them, the next generation must be patient and ambitious. Thus, this painting style will only exist for a short time. This alluring art form is done on fabric with castor oil, six inches-thin metal rod, and paints.
These paintings are purchased by foreigners and locals at high prices as the production of these paintings is really low.
All the fore mentioned art forms are unique in their own way. It’s time for India’s citizens to realize these paintings’ significance. Necessary steps should be taken by the government to continue the production of these art forms.
Let us know in the comments about other Indian paintings and art forms slowly losing their existence.
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