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Kalighat

West Bengal Shri Anwar Chitrakar · West Bengal
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Art Form Details

The Kalighat painting style was developed in the mid-19th century in the neighbourhood of the Kali Temple in Kolkata. These paintings on paper were created by artists known as patuas, hence the name Kalighata Pata. The artists depicted scenes from everyday life and mythological narratives in a simple yet captivating style, which evolved into the popular Kalighat tradition. Kalighat painters traditionally use earthy colours such as indigo, ochre, Indian red, grey, blue and white.

Artist Details

Shri Anwar Chitrakar

Shri Anwar Chitrakar

Patuā Artist · West Bengal

Anwar Chitrakar is a traditional Patuā artist from West Bengal trained in the 19th-century Kalighat style of painting. Drawing on traditional myths and stories, he presents them with a contemporary perspective that reflects his evolving artistic voice. A skilled storyteller, Chitrakar has exhibited widely in India and abroad. His works are held in collections including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. He has received several honours including the West Bengal State Award and the National Award.

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