A Living Legacy of India’s Tribal Storytelling Tradition
Among the many treasures of India’s tribal and folk art, Paitkar Painting from Jharkhand stands out as a timeless expression of storytelling through colors and brushstrokes. Known as one of the oldest tribal scroll paintings in Eastern India, Paitkar is deeply rooted in the traditions, beliefs, and daily life of the indigenous communities. It reflects not only their artistic excellence but also their profound connection with nature, spirituality, and folklore.
What is Paitkar Painting?
Paitkar Painting, also known as the Scroll Painting of Amadubi, is a traditional folk painting practiced by tribal artists in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, especially in the village of Amadubi.
The word Paitkar comes from “Pata”, meaning scroll, as these paintings are usually made on scrolls of handmade paper or old cloth.
Paitkar art is often called the "Scrolls of the East", similar in spirit to Bengal’s Patachitra, yet unique in its themes, colors, and raw emotion. It beautifully depicts mythological tales, village life, rituals, and social messages, all narrated in a flowing visual story.
What is Paitkar Painting Famous For?
Paitkar paintings are famous for their vivid natural colors, fine brushwork, and narrative style. Each painting is a story in motion, traditionally unfurled during performances where the artist would sing the tale depicted on the scroll.
Key highlights of Paitkar art include:
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Handmade natural dyes sourced from soil, leaves, fruits, and stones.
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Recycled paper or cloth base, making it eco-friendly.
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Themes inspired by tribal folklore, religious legends, and social issues.
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Distinctive facial expressions and elongated eyes that bring figures to life.
These features make Paitkar a sustainable, handmade, and culturally rich art form, celebrated both in India and abroad.
Where is Paitkar Painting Famous?
Paitkar paintings are most famous in Amadubi village, located in Dhalbhumgarh block, East Singhbhum, Jharkhand.
This small village is popularly known as the “Village of Painters”, where generations of tribal artists continue this ancient craft.
Apart from Jharkhand, similar styles are found in parts of West Bengal and Odisha, but Amadubi remains the heartland of authentic Paitkar tradition.
What Are the Themes of Paitkar Paintings?
The themes of Paitkar art are a blend of mythology, daily life, spirituality, and moral lessons.
Some common subjects include:
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Tales from Ramayana and Mahabharata
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Tribal deities and local folk gods
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Stories of karma, rebirth, and justice
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Depictions of farming, festivals, hunting, and marriage rituals
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Awareness themes such as environmental care, unity, and peace
Every painting tells a continuous story, just like a visual poem that unfolds as the scroll is opened.
How is Paitkar Painting Made?
The process of making a Paitkar painting is as beautiful as the art itself.
Here’s how artists create these masterpieces:
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Base Preparation – Old cloth or handmade paper is used as a canvas. The surface is treated with tamarind seed paste or diluted rice starch for strength.
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Outlining – Artists use fine bamboo sticks or squirrel-hair brushes to draw detailed outlines.
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Coloring – Natural colors are prepared from minerals, flowers, and vegetables. For instance, red comes from vermilion, yellow from turmeric, black from soot, and green from leaves.
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Narration – Traditionally, the painting was used in storytelling performances, where the artist sang narratives while unrolling the scroll.
This traditional process makes every Paitkar painting a unique handmade artwork, full of emotion and authenticity.
Origin and History of Paitkar Painting
Paitkar painting is believed to be over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest forms of scroll painting in India.
Its origin lies in tribal storytelling traditions, where itinerant artists (known as Paitkar painters or Chitrakars) would travel from village to village narrating mythological stories through illustrated scrolls.
This was not just art—it was a medium of communication, education, and moral reflection for the rural community. Even today, the art continues to preserve tribal identity and cultural history.
How Can You Identify an Authentic Paitkar Painting?
Authentic Paitkar paintings can be identified by:
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Use of natural colors and handmade paper
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Elongated human figures with expressive eyes
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Scenes that flow continuously from one frame to another
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Absence of synthetic colors or digital printing
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Signature of the artist, usually in local tribal script
Every piece carries the artist’s individual emotion and storytelling style—no two Paitkar scrolls are ever the same.
Why is Paitkar Painting Important Today?
In a fast-paced, digital world, Paitkar art is a symbol of sustainability, creativity, and cultural heritage. It represents:
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Eco-friendly craftsmanship using natural resources
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Women empowerment and rural livelihood — many tribal women in Amadubi sustain their families through this art
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Cultural preservation — keeping ancient Indian storytelling traditions alive
Organizations and online platforms like BlueKart are helping promote Paitkar paintings to a global audience, supporting tribal artisans and ensuring this legacy continues for generations.
Famous Paitkar Art Motifs
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Dancing tribal couples
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Scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata
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Hunting and fishing scenes
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Folk deities and nature spirits
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Social messages through visual storytelling
Each artwork is not just decoration—it’s a window into the soul of rural Jharkhand.
FAQs on Paitkar Painting
1. What is Paitkar painting?
Paitkar is a traditional scroll painting from Jharkhand, created by tribal artists to depict stories of gods, humans, and nature.
2. Where is Paitkar art made?
It is mainly made in Amadubi village, East Singhbhum district, Jharkhand.
3. What materials are used in Paitkar paintings?
Artists use natural colors, handmade paper, bamboo brushes, and old cloth scrolls.
4. What are common themes in Paitkar art?
Mythological tales, folk deities, village life, and moral lessons are common subjects.
5. How can I buy original Paitkar art?
You can purchase authentic Paitkar paintings from certified artisan platforms and social enterprises like Bluekart, which promote tribal art and provide direct income to local artists.
6. Why is Paitkar painting eco-friendly?
It uses natural dyes, recycled materials, and sustainable art practices—no chemicals or synthetic elements are involved.
