The paintings hanging behind the idol of Shrinathji in the Nathdwara temple are traditional Pichwai art. This art form emerged in the 17th century and emerged at the aforementioned Nathdwara temple in Rajasthan.
These intricate hand-painted artworks are dedicated to Shrinathji, traditionally painted on a hand-spun cloth with much precision, capture different moods and expressions of Krishna, and mostly depict temple rituals of Shrinath ji temple such as adornment, and festivals like Janmashtami. Motifs like cows and lotus, are very prominent in the paintings. Pichwai art tradition has been passed through generations in quite a sacred manner. The painting is not taught in an educational institution but is learned under the guidance of a master artist.
Rooftop brings you a comprehensive and detailed course about Pichwai art with an award-winning artist Shri Rajaram Sharma ji.
Uncover the story behind the artworks that stand as stunning backdrops to Lord Shrinathji.
Meet master artist, Shri Rajaram Sharma, a National Awardee who has been practising the Pichwai art form for more than 40 years!
Listen to Rajaram Sharma ji narrate the story behind the origin of the Nathdwara Temple and its Pichwais.
Rajaram Sharma Ji goes in the depth of details about the use and preparation of natural colours in Pichwai
Rajaram Sharma ji explains how traditional brushes for Pichwais were made. *No animals were harmed during this shoot. We do not promote animal cruelty.
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Born in Bhilwara, Rajasthan, Shri Raja Ram Sharma is the foremost Pichwai artist of India. At the tender age of 13, he went to Nathdwara to get training from Shri Tulsidas under the coveted Guru Shishya Parampara.
In a career spanning over 45+ years, Shri Raja Ram Sharma has gained worldwide recognition for his intricate hand-made paintings. Along with the traditional style of Pichwai painting, Raja Ram ji has also contemporaries in the painting traditions. He is credited with taking the Pichwai painting to the world stage. Continuing with the Pichwai tradition, he is also training his son, Rajat Sharma, in the art form.
He runs a Chitrashala where he guides and trains upcoming artists. Raja Ram Ji has had several gallery and museum exhibitions. His work has been widely recognised and appreciated, and he is the recipient of several National and International Awards and accolades. Despite his massive success, he still continues to work from his workshop in Udaipur.
Major Awards Received
We can witness his beautiful works at