Art of Gujarat as a rich history that is still present with us. However, we know so little about them. Situated at the western edge of India – Gujarat is a vibrant state of art and culture. Moreover, each of its districts has its own unique and impressive art heritage that is practiced even today. The heritage of each art form speaks volume about the culture, religion, heritage and traditions. As the oldest state of India, Gujarat has gained much appreciation and popularity around the globe. Since, the state has made its benchmark in the history of Indian folk art. The glory of Gujarati culture dates back thousands of years and continues to survive today. However, it became more popular and tourism increased. Let’s dive into India’s oldest state’s exquisite art from Gujarat.
Patola
This is a 900 years old craft. However, now it is not just a piece of cloth but a sacred tradition for people in Gujarat. On a Patola, the square represents security in every aspect of life. Additionally, the elephant, parrot, peacock and kalash are considered for good luck. This form of art is from Patan, the former capital of Gujarat and mostly it is practiced by the Salvi community.
Ajrakh
Ajrakhpur, a village in Gujarat’s Kutch district, practices an age-old tradition of hand block painting as part of its culture. Additionally, it is believed that the king loved his bedspread that he asked his maids to let it stay on his bed for one more day, saying “aj ke din rakh”. It was this phrase that provided the name for that uniquely printed fabric – Ajrakh. Another belief is that the ajrakh is derived from the sanskrit word ‘A-jharat’ or ‘which does not fade’.
Rogan Art
Rogan art originated from Persia and traveled to Gujarat 400 years back. Now, this form of art was particularly used to beautify bridal clothing in tribal communities. Rogan art is the seven generations old art of the Khatri family. The only family who knows this form of art in the small village called Nirona in Kutch.
Bandhani – Most Famous Art of Gujarat
The art of Bandhani is a highly skilled process and has been exclusively carried out by the Khatri community of Kutch and Saurashtra. There is ample evidence from archaeologists that the form of art was practiced from the Mohenjo-Daro era, dating back to about 2000 BC – before christ. Since then, this is one of the most popular and worn fabric in Gujarat and some regions of India.
Mata Ni Pachedi – The art of Gujarat for 9 Days
Mata ni pachedi has a very profound story behind it. The tale goes around the battle of Lord Shiva and asuras (demon), for every drop of blood fallen on the earth, gave rise to another demon. Lord Shiva turned to Shakti (Goddess Durga) for help and Goddess Shakti drank all the blood of demons and saved both the worlds. However, this story inspired the creation of this exquisite art and presently this form of art can now be seen in the 9 divine days of navratri kept behind the shrine or any other religious event.
Facebook
Instagram
WhatsApp
