CHERIYAL SCROLL PAINTING
Cheriyal scroll painting is a traditional art form originating from the Cheriyal village in Telangana, India. It is also known as Cheriyal scroll art or Cheriyal paintings. This art form has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its vibrant colours, intricate detailing, and unique storytelling themes.
Themes and Styles
- Mythology and Folklore: Traditionally, Cheriyal scroll paintings served as vibrant storytellers, depicting scenes from Indian mythology like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, alongside local folktales. These narratives unfold sequentially, much like a comic strip, on long scrolls of cloth or paper.
- A Riot of Colors: Bold and vivid hues are a hallmark of Cheriyal paintings. Natural pigments derived from vegetable dyes and minerals bring the artwork to life. Red, yellow, blue, green, and black are the dominant colours, creating a visually arresting experience.
- A Distinctive Style: Cheriyal paintings boast a recognizable aesthetic. Figures are presented in a stylized manner, with expressive faces and exaggerated features. The backgrounds often come alive with geometric patterns and floral motifs, adding depth and vibrancy.
- Social Commentary: While religious and mythological themes dominated earlier works, contemporary Cheriyal scroll paintings have evolved to address social issues and contemporary events, reflecting the changing times.
3. The Creation Process of Cheriyal Paintings
Creating a Cheriyal scroll painting is a meticulous and time-honoured practice
- Preparing the Canvas: Traditionally, cloth or handmade paper serves as the base. A paste made from tamarind seed and chalk powder is applied to create a smooth surface for the artwork.
- Sketching and Outlining: The artist meticulously sketches the outlines of figures and scenes using a pencil or charcoal, laying the foundation for the narrative.
- Coloring Magic: Natural pigments are mixed with water or a gum solution to create vibrant colours. The artist then carefully fills in the outlines, bringing the scene to life.
- The Finishing Touches: After applying the base colours, the artist adds details to the figures, clothing, and background using fine brushes. This meticulous step infuses the artwork with life and depth.
- Preserving the Art: A thin layer of varnish is applied after the painting is complete. This serves to protect the colours and ensure the artwork's longevity.
4. The Significance of Cheriyal Paintings
Cheriyal scroll paintings transcend mere aesthetics. They are
- These paintings offer a window into the traditions, beliefs, and way of life of the people of Telangana. They are valuable historical and cultural artefacts, preserving a rich artistic heritage.
- Cheriyal paintings showcase the evolution of storytelling through art. The sequential format and vibrant visuals have served as a powerful medium for generations.
- The willingness of contemporary artists to address social issues through their art ensures Cheriyal scroll paintings remain relevant, sparking conversations and raising awareness.
- While traditionally used for religious purposes, Cheriyal scroll paintings have found a place in modern homes as beautiful decorative pieces and prized collectables.
5. Threats and Preservation Efforts
Despite its rich legacy, Cheriyal scroll painting faces challenges
- Competition from Machine-made Art The influx of mass-produced art poses a threat to the traditional art form.
- Socio-economic Factors Struggles faced by artists, including dwindling financial returns, can discourage younger generations from pursuing this art form.
Efforts are underway to preserve this cultural treasure:
- Government Initiatives like Geographical Indication (GI) status recognition and support programs for artists aim to safeguard this art form.
- Increased promotion through exhibitions, workshops, and recognition programs can raise awareness and appreciation for Cheriyal scroll paintings.
6. The Way Forward
Cheriyal scroll painting is a vibrant tapestry woven with rich cultural heritage, artistic mastery, and captivating narratives. As you delve deeper into this art form, appreciate the meticulous process, the symbolic language embedded within it, and the enduring legacy it carries forward.
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For Prelims: Cheriyal Scroll Painting, Telangana, Ramayan, Mahabharat, Geographical Indication For Mains: 1. Globalization has led to the increased availability of machine-made art, posing a threat to traditional art forms. Analyze the impact of globalization on Indian handicrafts and suggest strategies to ensure their economic viability. (250 Words)
2. Discuss how Cheriyal scroll paintings reflect the social, cultural, and religious life of Telangana. How can the preservation of such art forms contribute to our understanding of Indian history? (250 words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. The Cheriyal Scrolls is a dying art form of India practised by one family called the Nakashi family for many generations. Name the modern day state which owns this art form. (SSC CHSL 2019)
A. Tamil Nadu B. West Bengal C. Telangana D. Karnataka
Answer: C
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