Lucknow: A two-day Bengal Kalighat Patachitra Workshop concluded successfully at Kokoro Art Gallery in Lucknow, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore one of India’s most celebrated folk art traditions. The workshop was conducted under the guidance of acclaimed folk artist Manoranjan Chitrakar from West Medinipur district of West Bengal, known for his dedication to preserving and promoting traditional Patachitra art.
The workshop aimed to introduce participants to the rich heritage of Bengal’s Kalighat Patachitra tradition and provide hands-on training in its distinctive artistic techniques.
Speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony, senior artist Jai Krishna Agrawal emphasized the importance of such initiatives in preserving and promoting India’s folk arts. He noted that workshops of this nature not only help connect younger generations with traditional artistic practices but also strengthen cultural dialogue between artists and society. He described folk art as an integral part of India’s cultural identity and called for collective efforts to ensure its continued preservation.
During the workshop, participants were introduced to the history, evolution, themes, drawing styles, colour schemes, and traditional techniques associated with Kalighat painting. Sharing his experiences, Manoranjan Chitrakar explained that Kalighat Patachitra is much more than an artistic style; it is a powerful reflection of Bengal’s cultural memory, folk beliefs, and everyday life. He also conducted practical sessions, guiding participants in creating artworks using traditional methods while discussing the emotional and cultural significance of the art form.
The workshop attracted enthusiastic participation from art students, young artists, researchers, and art lovers from Lucknow and Ayodhya. Through interactive sessions and practical demonstrations, attendees gained valuable insights into the nuances of this historic folk painting tradition.
A special exhibition of artworks created by participants during the workshop was also organized at the conclusion of the event. The display highlighted the creativity, artistic sensitivity, and newly acquired skills of the participants, earning appreciation from visitors and art enthusiasts alike.
Participants described the workshop as an enriching experience that deepened their understanding of Indian folk art traditions and inspired them to explore traditional visual languages in their own creative practices.
Certificates were presented to all participants during the closing ceremony. On the occasion, Vandana Sehgal, Curator of Kokoro Art Gallery, said the gallery would continue to organize exhibitions, workshops, and training programmes focused on Indian folk and tribal arts alongside contemporary art initiatives. Such efforts, she noted, provide artists and art enthusiasts with meaningful opportunities to engage with the diverse artistic traditions of India.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, artists, and art patrons, including Navneet Sehgal, Bhupendra Kumar Asthana, Vinay Paul, Girish Pandey, Rabia, Zubairia, Ajay Kumar, and Hansraj, among others.
