Lucknow: A two-day exhibition showcasing Bengal’s famed Kalighat Pattachitra paintings by folk artist Manoranjan Chitrakar opened at Kokoro Art Gallery on Friday, drawing art lovers, students and cultural enthusiasts keen to explore one of the state’s most distinctive traditional art forms.The exhibition, featuring 50 artworks, celebrates Bengal’s rich artistic heritage through a range of themes, including mythological narratives, depictions of Hindu deities, religious motifs, social life, folk traditions and contemporary events.The exhibition was curated by Prof Vandana Sehgal, principal of the Faculty of Architecture and Planning at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU). “Kalighat Pattachitra paintings are a living folk tradition of Bengal. It is a distinctive painting style that originated in the nineteenth century. Pattachitra is known for its strong and flowing linework, the use of bright colours and minimal detailing in the background,” she said.Among the key works on display is ‘Devi Devi’, a painting that portrays the many emotions of Goddess Durga. Another prominent artwork, ‘Babu Bibi’, offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and social culture of Bengali society.Several paintings also reflect traces of British influence, social contradictions and the spirit of freedom that shaped different phases of Bengal’s history.Speaking at the exhibition, artist Manoranjan Chitrakar said his work was rooted in family tradition rather than formal training. “I have never taken any formal classes or training, but I learnt to make these paintings from my parents. We use organic colours, which make the artworks more attractive and visually appealing,” he said.The exhibition was inaugurated by Padma Shri awardee and noted writer Vidya Bindu Singh.
