As part of the popular museum educational program series “Do and Learn” of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya among children, housewives and students, a workshop on traditional Kalighat painting of West Bengal will be held till 18 June 2024. In this workshop, traditional artist of West Bengal, Kalam Patua, a scroll painter, is training the registered participants.

He said that art is a part of our history, culture and tradition. Ancient art not only captures the essence of bygone eras but also allows us to understand more about contemporary art. We all get the opportunity to express our talents and emotions through art.We believe that mastering new art techniques can boost your creativity.

Kalighat painting is believed to have originated from the famous Kalighat temple of Bengal. It was started by the Patua community. Under this art, paintings of Kali Maa were made on handmade cloth or paper, in this art trees are often depicted as women, because they represent shelter, fertility, growth and opportunity. Since Kalighat paintings began near the temple of the goddess Kali, Kali is the embodiment of mother power so female subjects are often depicted as strong in her honour.

The brushes used for sketch drawings are made from squirrel and goat hair. What makes Kalighat paintings so unique? The entire family participates in the making of this painting Depending on gender and age, each family member has a specific role to play in the construction process. Who are usually from the same family.

So, while some members grind the ingredients to make paint at home, others outline the shapes, fill in the colors, or add finishing touches such as motifs and background patterns. These artists were called Patua because they made paintings of Goddess Kali on board or cloth Apart from this, the painters also made pictures of other gods and goddesses along with the scenes from Ramcharitmanas. However with time many other aspects of education, freedom struggle and daily life are also depicted through this painting.