The Indian Traditional Paintings Redefining Pichwai

The Indian Traditional Paintings Redefining Pichwai Pichwai or ‘pichvai’ form of paintings are one of the spectacular and ancient forms of art that have their origin in India, the land of culture. Having their roots in Nathdwara Rajasthan, pichwai (pichvai), the Indian traditional painting, is a stunning art form that has existed for over 400 years.

The stunning art form is a 400-year-old art one which was created depicting the beautiful life of Lord Krishna. The wall art is created by depicting the story of Shrinathji, another form of Lord Krishna holding the hill Govardhan.

The story contains a beautiful history which represents the power of one of the most significant incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

When Lord Indra, showcased his control over the inhabitants of Vrindavan, with steady rains and thunderstorms; Lord Krishna lifted the hill named Govardhan on his little finger and the people of Vrindavan took refuge under the mountain.

With this Indira realized failure to disturb the people and his ego was broken. Since then people are worshipping Govardhan hill.

Steeping in tradition, Pichwai art depicted the moods of the Lord on the canvas and therefore are also known as Shrinathji pichwai paintings.

However, with a change in mindset towards art and aesthetics, this art form is gradually evolving incorporating the contemporary elements. To cater to the requirements of customers for decorating their modern homes, the size and structure of the paintings are reduced from 10-12 feet to about 2-4 feet now.

Also, the subject has undergone a transformation owing to the audience’s changing demands- artists are creating contemporary renditions of these Indian traditional painting art form in terms of composition, colours and features (sharp nose, round/oval-shaped eye) of the deity.

Charting a new path, various artists have started painting on social issues such as saving trees, water to generate awareness and create a niche for their artwork.

Apart from this, Shrinathji Pichwai paintings are now being used on clothes such as saree and various artistic home decor items with vibrant colours including hand-woven tapestries which have received good response from the customers.