Cheriyal Paintings: Keeping the Tales Alive - Rohit
Cheriyal Paintings: Keeping the Tales Alive
In the bustling streets of Hyderabad, where modernity and tradition harmonize in an intricate dance, lies a gem of cultural heritage - Cheriyal paintings. Tucked away in the quaint village of Cheriyal, these scroll paintings tell tales of ancient myths, folklore and everyday life with vibrant colors and intricate details. Cheriyal paintings are not just a form of art; they are a window into the rich cultural tapestry of Telangana, preserving stories that might otherwise have faded into obscurity.
Preserving Tradition in Brushstrokes
The origins of Cheriyal paintings date back centuries, intertwining with the history of Telangana itself. Cheriyal Scroll Painting is a modified version of Nakkashi art, known for its rich local motifs and narrative format. The stories depicted in these scrolls stem from Indian mythology and local folklore, offering a unique blend of tradition and creativity.
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Image 1: Details of Cheriyal Scroll paintings © 2022 Vayu - Design for living |
A Journey Through Time and Culture
Cheriyal paintings are not merely static images; they are dynamic narratives that unfold like a storybook. From the mythical tales of gods and goddesses to the everyday lives of rural communities, each painting is a window into a different aspect of Telangana's cultural heritage. The artists known as Nakkashis, meticulously craft each scroll infusing it with their unique style and interpretation.
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| Image 2: Cheriyal Dolls by D.Vaikuntam |
Craftsmanship and Creativity
The process of creating Cheriyal paintings is as intricate as the stories they depict. From preparing the canvas cloth with rice starch and tree gum to grinding natural stones for pigments, every step is a testament to the artisans' dedication to their craft. The resulting paintings, with their vivid colors and bold outlines, capture the imagination and transport viewers to a bygone era.
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Image 3: Making of Cheriyal masks |
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| Image 4: Cheriyal Sawdust Masks |
A Living Tradition
Despite the challenges posed by modernization and changing tastes the tradition of Cheriyal painting continues to thrive, thanks to the efforts of dedicated artisans like the Dhanalakota family. With their unwavering commitment to preserving this ancient art form, they ensure that future generations can continue to experience the magic of Cheriyal paintings.
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| Image 5: The Dhanalakota Nakash family at their home |
Looking Towards the Future
As we marvel at the intricate beauty of Cheriyal paintings, it's essential to recognize the efforts needed to ensure their survival. By supporting local artisans, promoting awareness, and preserving cultural heritage, we can ensure that Cheriyal paintings continue to weave their tales for generations to come.
In a world dominated by technology and mass media, the quiet artistry of Cheriyal paintings serves as a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling. As long as there are artists willing to keep the flame alive, the tales of Cheriyal will continue to captivate and inspire us all.
References
https://www.telangana.gov.in/about/state-profile
https://telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/about/history-of-telangana.html
https://www.telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/about/arts-crafts/cheriyal-scroll-paintings.html
The Times of India: Story of Cheriyal Art: Different Strokes for Different Folks
https://www.dsource.in/resource/cheriyal-painting-telangana
References : Image Source
Image1:https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ci/AE9Axz-N2_1vG49NxQKhx21Y68rEUgAqsjqzZM
d3jpPJldr7UqWRb1_qDbM1AB2T440t8dL7mwJB8QYt=s1200
Image 2: http://vaikuntamnakash.blogspot.com/2013/
Image 3: Clicked by Vivek Chauhan
Image 4: http://vaikuntamnakash.blogspot.com/2013/
Image 5: Given by artisans





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