Pichwai Painting

Pichwai paintings  are the famous cloth hangings used  as a backdrop in the Nathdwara Temple in Rajasthan. Pich means back & wais means hanging in the Sanskrit language.

 Available in Jaipur –Rajasthali

in Delhi – Rajasthali 

Shrinathji Temple In Nathdwara

The famous temple of  Lord Krishna , who is known by the name of  Shrinathji  is in Nathdwara, near Udaipur in Rajasthan. It is interesting to note that the idol of Shrinathji was shifted from Vrindavan to Nathdwara  fearing vandalism by Mughal emperor Aurengzeb & his troops .

Pic credit: thebimba.com

Pichwai Painting -Process

They are primarily done on cloth to hang behind the temple deity, Shrinathji. The paintings behind the lord are changed daily. They are mostly done in shades of green & blue.

The central subject of a pichwai painting  is to narrate tales from Krishna’s life . Hence ,cows, peacocks, lotuses and his rasa leela  ,Radha & Krishna with the flute, are all familiar themes. The calendar of festivals such as Govardhan puja, Krishna Ashtami, Holi, Sharad Purnima (autumn festival ) often form the subject of the paintings.

The Temple offerrings  to the Lord, include bhog,( food ), fabric to cover the throne, the canopy for the lord Shrinathji and so on. Hence, the painting that serves as a background is considered an offering.The idol of Shrinathji is at the centre of almost all Pichwai painting.Vibrant colours & intricate designs are the hallmark of the paintings

Pic credit: rooftopapp.com

 The painting is done on a starched cloth.Cotton or silk canvases are made ready with gum & chalk. This ensures that the cloth is durable.The  intricate design is meticulously  sketched on the cloth. The colours are then added to the sketch. This is the most important process. Finally, gold or silver accents  are added to the painting.

The State of Rajasthan is famous for its  history, valour, courage, and its  magnificent forts, & palaces. Colour plays an important part of just about everything in the State. From  the clothes , the turban, to the jewellery, lac bangles, colourful  jewellery, patchwork quilts, wall hangings, bed spreads, painted furniture & more .

 Handicrafts such as blue pottery, marble inlay work, painted furniture & miniature paintings are some of the popular handicrafts . Pichwai painting is another marvellous handicraft from this State.