Pichwai, The Indian Traditional Paintings of Nathdwara

Pichwai paintings are traditional paintings of India that has a huge cultural and creative importance. Pichwai, literally meaning ‘at the back,’ are lyrical paintings on cloth which hang as a backdrop to the an idol of Srinathji in the sanctum sanctorum of the Nathdwara Temple of Udaipur and the Krishna deities of other temples of the Pushtimarga sect of Vaishnavism.

Pichvai painting's history is one of the most interesting. These paintings are mostly depictions of Krishna’s childhood in the imagined idyllic surroundings of Vrindavan: forests and trees in shades of verdant green, enormous pink lotuses entwined with leaves or growing with profuse abandon in ponds, and birds perched on flower-laden trees. These are summer Pichwais, while the monsoon ones feature Krishna Leela against the background of dark clouds, pelting rain and dancing peacocks! Pichwais, the traditional paintings of India are changed in the temple in tune with the changing moods of the deity, seasonal rhythms and festivals.

Along with the Pichwais’ matching canopies, thrones and seat coverings have been among the varied items that were made around the Nathdwara Temple by traditional artists. They are still being crafted by artisans belonging to the Gowda Brahmin sect. Today Pichwais have become interior design statements and are also painted by artisans from other communities. The pichvai painting history, technique, and art form have attracted more art enthusiasts in recent times.  Several exhibition and events spreading knowledge regarding these traditional paintings of India have seen great footfall of the interested audience. This is one of the major reasons for the rise in interventions in the field of pichwai paintings making it accessible for people to use as décor for their living spaces. 

The paintings main theme is Srinathji of Nathdwara and his life events that took place during those times. Srinathji is depicted in most frames typically bedecked in jewelry and lotus mala in frames bordered with shaded lotus flowers and cows, often painted brightly. Fantastic gilded trees, lotus flowers, peacocks and cows give each painting a typical Pichwai flavor as scenes from Krishna’s life unfold. Although Soni’s inspiration is the traditional Pichwai, he experiments and innovates in his painting.

Pichwai Exhibition intends to bring exposure to the valuable art forms. Some of the recent exhibitions have displayed art in the most informative wy and have experienced huge success. Divided over several floors, the Pichwai painting exhibition unveils the various other schools of art that has influenced it, owing to socio-cultural factors. Since the Pichwai style is dedicated to Shrinathji, the deity has a prime placement in each of the paintings. Usually, the paintings are informed by the aesthetics of the Mewar school of art, with Srinathji’s statue at Nathdwara forming the base of each work.