Rama Rajyabhishek in Phad by Kalyan Joshi

In this vibrant Phad painting by Kalyan Joshi, the scene of Lord Ram’s Coronation comes alive with vivid colors and intricate details. The focus is on the dynamic array of characters surrounding Lord Ram as he is crowned the king of Ayodhya. Each figure is carefully depicted, from the noble Lord Ram himself to the various gods, sages, and creatures from the Ramayana who gather to witness the auspicious event. The palette is rich and diverse, with bold hues and intricate patterns adding depth and dimension to the composition. The painting captures the sense of grandeur and celebration that accompanies such a significant moment in Hindu mythology. From the joyous expressions of the onlookers to the ceremonial rituals taking place, every aspect of the coronation is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. This Phad painting serves as a visual feast, immersing the viewer in the timeless tale of Lord Ram’s ascent to kingship with its vibrant colors and dynamic composition.

India’s rich tapestry of folk art forms has woven stories of tradition and heritage through vibrant visual expressions for centuries. Among these, Phad painting from Rajasthan shines with a distinct history and revival efforts. Originating over 700 years ago in Shahpura near Bhilwara, Rajasthan, Phad embodies a legacy passed through generations within a single family. These scroll paintings, known as Phad, serve as intricate narrators of religious tales featuring local deities and gods. They were ingeniously crafted as mobile temples, carried by priest-singers of the Rabari tribe, known as Bhopas and Bhopis. Unveiled after sunset, Phad paintings accompanied mesmerizing performances that unfolded under the night sky, captivating village audiences. Crafting a Phad painting demands exceptional skill, with artists meticulously adhering to ancestral techniques. Using hand-woven coarse cotton cloth, each piece undergoes a painstaking process of soaking, stiffening, drying, and smoothing to prepare the canvas. Employing solely natural materials sourced from stones, flowers, plants, and herbs, artists handcraft paints, infusing each hue with symbolic significance. Delicate brushstrokes bring to life vibrant scenes, with colors meticulously chosen for specific elements, culminating in the painting’s crowning touch—the meticulously painted eyes, infusing the artwork with divine presence.