Abirpothi

India’s only daily art newspaper

#folkart

A Printing Tradition From Madhya Pradesh: Hear The Bagh Prints Roar!

Bagh, a picturesque village in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh, is renowned for its exquisite block printing technique to make Bagh prints. This remarkable craft takes its name from the meandering River Baghini, which gracefully flows through the village, symbolising the very essence of this art form. Bagh Prints of Madhya Pradesh is an […]

A Printing Tradition From Madhya Pradesh: Hear The Bagh Prints Roar! Read More »

Divine Doorways: Exploring the Mystique of Kavad Art from Rajasthan

A kavad is a mobile shrine or temple intricately crafted from painted wood. It holds significance within the oral storytelling practice known as kavad banchana, widely embraced in the Rajasthan region. The term “kavad” is thought to have roots in Sanskrit words such as “kavaat,” “kapaat,” or “kivaad,” which allude to a “half door” or

Divine Doorways: Exploring the Mystique of Kavad Art from Rajasthan Read More »

Dhabla Weaving, A Unique Craft from The Deserts of India

What is a Dhabla? Dhabla, a Rajasthani-style Kutch weaving, evolved through the migration of Vankar people from Rajasthan, settling in Kutch due to commerce. They mastered the unique dhabla weave suited to the region’s hot climate.The Meghwals’ journey to Kutch, driven by their devotion to Shri Ram Dev Pirji, added to the cultural tapestry. The

Dhabla Weaving, A Unique Craft from The Deserts of India Read More »

Stories Stitched in Time: Chamba Rumal, The Needlework Wonders of Himachal

Introduction For many, the unassuming cloth handkerchief is a commonplace object in daily life. Often embellished with monograms or subtle patterns, these hankies serve the simple purpose of wiping hands and faces. However, the Chamba Rumal (where “rumal” translates to handkerchief) defies convention. Far from ordinary, it’s a unique and treasured artefact, far too precious

Stories Stitched in Time: Chamba Rumal, The Needlework Wonders of Himachal Read More »

Stitching Beauty in Kashmir Valley: The Art of Sozni Embroidery

We all know that Kashmir has a rich heritage of artistic handicrafts, with a special focus on the creation of exquisitely detailed and artistic hand-embroidered textile. This age-old tradition not only holds cultural significance but also plays a pivotal role in the economic livelihood of the local population. The region is renowned for its vibrant

Stitching Beauty in Kashmir Valley: The Art of Sozni Embroidery Read More »

Weaving Warmth: The Evolution and Artistry of Kullu Shawls

INTRODUCTION The origin of the name ‘Kullu’ can be traced to ‘kulant peeth’, signifying ‘the terminus of the inhabited world’. This picturesque valley settlement finds its snug abode nestled between the mighty lower and greater Himalayan ranges, harmoniously tracing the path of the Beas River. While a handful of hotels and resorts have emerged, life

Weaving Warmth: The Evolution and Artistry of Kullu Shawls Read More »

Crafting Divinity: Pichwai Tradition and its Artistic and Devotional Resonance

Revered Art of Pichwai Originating in Nathdwara, near Udaipur, Rajasthan, pichwai is a devotional custom where cloth is painted with revered images and hung behind the deity. This practice emerged in the 17th-century shrine of Nathdwara when an idol of Krishna was moved from Mathura during Aurangzeb’s reign. “Pichwai,” which translates to “that which hangs

Crafting Divinity: Pichwai Tradition and its Artistic and Devotional Resonance Read More »

Incredible World of Ilkal Sarees: The Lesser-Known Weave of Karnataka

Ilkal Sarees are found almost everywhere, from the small towns in Maharashtra to North Karnataka. A special Ilkal saree with Kasuti embroidery was seen on our Finance Minister, Ms Nirmala Sitharaman while she was presenting the Union Budget in February. So, let’s find out what is so special about Ilkal sarees that are made in

Incredible World of Ilkal Sarees: The Lesser-Known Weave of Karnataka Read More »

Clay Creations of Chhattisgarh: Community Art of The Rajwars

In the Sarguja district of Chhattisgarh, the Rajwars, a farming community, dabble in a unique and traditional art form known as Painted Clay Relief. This art form is primarily practised by the women of the community and holds great significance in their culture. The Rajwars are primarily Hindu and follow the rituals and customs associated

Clay Creations of Chhattisgarh: Community Art of The Rajwars Read More »