Kalamkari Painting

Artwork – Kalamkari Painting
Region – Andhra Pradesh & Telangana

Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art form originating from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, renowned for its intricate hand-painted and block-printed designs. Derived from the Persian words 'kalam' (pen) and 'kari' (craftsmanship), this art primarily uses natural dyes made from plants and minerals. With roots tracing back over 3,000 years, Kalamkari flourished under the patronage of the Mughals and the Golconda Sultanate.

It primarily depicts mythological themes, including Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. A common subject is Surya, the Sun God, shown majestically riding his chariot, surrounded by detailed floral and animal motifs. The two main styles are Srikalahasti, which is hand-drawn and narrative in nature, and Machilipatnam, which uses block printing and features decorative patterns. This heritage art continues to thrive today, preserving India's cultural identity through its vibrant storytelling and natural aesthetics.