The Divine Majesty of Rama: A Pattachitra Masterpiece

About the workshop

Enjoy the learning of Pattachitra painting "The Divine Majesty of Rama: A Pattachitra Masterpiece" using traditional motifs and techniques with national awardee artist Mr. Bhaskar Mohapatra

Pattachitra is an ancient art form from Odisha, India, dating back to the 12th century. Artists, called Chitrakars, use 100% natural colors from conch shells and minerals to create intricate paintings on various surfaces like cloth, palm leaves, wood, and jewelry. The art depicts Hindu mythological stories, particularly around Lord Jagannath, Vaishnavism, and local folk tales, reflecting Odia tradition. Evolving, Pattachitra adapted to British and European tastes in the 19th century, preserving its rich legacy with vibrant colors and intricate details, offering a captivating visual representation of Odia culture.

The Divine Majesty of Rama: A Pattachitra Masterpiece: This traditional Pattachitra painting from Odisha depicts Lord Rama, characterized by his distinct green complexion and noble bearing, standing as the central focal point. He is shown holding his iconic bow and arrow, symbols of his role as the protector of dharma and the ultimate warrior-king. At his feet, the devoted Hanuman and the celestial mount Garuda are depicted in a kneeling posture of deep reverence and prayer. The entire composition is encased within an elaborate temple-like arch, known as a Prabhavali, which adds a sense of sacredness to the scene. Along the inner arch, small circular vignettes likely represent the Dashavatara or various episodes from the Ramayana, emphasizing Rama’s divine lineage. The artwork is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail, seen in the intricate patterns of Rama’s dhoti and the ornate jewelry adorning all the figures. A hallmark of the Pattachitra style is the use of bold colors and the distinctively large, almond-shaped eyes that imbue the figures with life. The background is filled with delicate floral motifs and a checkered floor, showcasing the artist's dedication to filling the entire canvas with decorative elements. The elaborate, multi-layered borders featuring floral and geometric designs serve to frame the sacred narrative and enhance its visual impact.

In this 4-week workshop, create your masterpiece, learning the techniques and history of this beautiful art form. You can attend live Zoom sessions where you interact with the master artist and other participants, learning not only the art form in depth but also more about the culture of the region. The recorded videos will be available after the sessions as well.

This is a great opportunity to learn the motifs, techniques, and history of this ancient art form. Sign up for the workshop today!

Theme: The Divine Majesty of Rama: A Pattachitra Masterpiece
Dates: 9th March to 3rd April 2026 (Mon to Fri)
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM IST (4 weeks)
Duration: 25 Hours (20 Sessions approx)
Original Price: INR 5600

Learning Objectives and Modules

Learn the intricate design and techniques of Pattachitra paintings along with live artist interaction. Also, learn the importance of Ram Rajyabhishe scene, the folk stories behind the paintings, their relevance in modern times, and the peculiar features of Pattachitra painting, from base coloring to detailing.

What we will learn :

To understand the significance of Ram Rajyabhishe scene in Hindu mythology.
Detailed knowledge about the process of making canvas and natural colors.
To develop foundational skills in Pattachitra painting techniques, including line work, color application, and composition.
To understand and value the cultural and artistic importance of Pattachitra art.

Module Details

Module 1 to 5

Module 1: Introduction to Pattachitra and the Ram Ji

Module 2: Introduction to traditional Pattachitra color palettes and their symbolic meaning, and learn how to do the Base color

Module 3: Focus on Ram Ji's iconographic features, stories, and associated symbolism, and continue doing base color

Module 4: Learn how to outline

Module 5: Learn how to create intricate details and patterns using a fine brush

Module 6 to 10

Module 6: Drafting the kneeling figures of Hanuman and Garuda at the base

Module 7: Designing the Dashavatara circular medallions within the archway

Module 8: Detailed sketching of the architectural pillars and lotus pedestal

Module 9: Application of the signature green base for Rama’s body

Module 10: Base coloring of Hanuman and Garuda in their respective hues

Module 11 to 15

Module 11: Learn how to use appropriate colors for each motif and their garments, based on traditional symbolism

Module 12: Detailing of the design of the background

Module 13: Create elements of Jewelry and detailing work.

Module 14: How to create Jewelry and detailing work

Module 15: How to do detailing with traditional motifs

Module 16 to 20

Module 16: How to do detailing with traditional motifs.

Module 17: How to do detailing work using red color to add details to the figures, including ornaments, facial features, and clothing patterns.

Module 18: How to do inner border detailing with traditional motifs.

Module 19: How to do outer border detailing with traditional motifs.

Module 20: Adding final touches to the painting, refining lines, adding highlights, and ensuring overall balance.

Materials Needed

Material Needed:

Chart Papers / Canvas -15*26 Inches
Acrylic Colors
Pencils / Eraser / Sharpener/Black Colour Pen / Thin Marker
Long Hair Brushes: 0/1/2/3
(Basic Sketch Would Be Provided As Pre-Work For Tracing / Sketching)

About the Master Artist

Bhaskar Mohapatra is an award-winning Pattachitra artist from Odisha, India, known for vibrant scroll paintings without pencil or charcoal sketches. He continues a family tradition of hereditary chitrakars, emphasizing cultural and familial importance. Using traditional methods for colors and canvases adds authenticity, preserving Pattachitra's cultural heritage. Bhaskar's diverse themes and award-winning work contribute to the versatility and significance of Pattachitra art nationally, aiding its continuation and revitalization.

Know more - About the Artist

Image Source and Disclaimers

Disclaimer for the art workshop:

The artist will make the painting in the standard size, and it is recommended to use the same size. However, participants may choose other sizes at their convenience and seek artist guidance in live sessions to manage the artwork in their chosen canvas size.
The artist typically uses the brushes at their convenience as they have years of experience. Participants may choose the brush size as per their convenience and level of expertise, and seek artist guidance in the live sessions.
Artists use the sample image as a reference image for teaching purposes only. They typically provide their interpretation and variations to make a unique artwork. Sample image is not copied as it is and Catterfly provides the due credit to the original artist (wherever available) in our marketing communications.

**The displayed image is a representational image from the net. Check our website to see the source and name of the original artist.**

*Source*