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Exploring the History of Pichwai Painting


07, February 2026

The word Pichwai means 'hanging at the back' and is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Pich', which means back, and 'Wai', which means hanging. These paintings describe the life events of Lord Krishna and are hung in temples behind the idol. The main theme of these paintings is Shrinathji and his Leelas (past times).

It belongs to the Mewar school of painting as a substyle. Because Nathdwara is the primary Pushtimarg center for Vallabhacharya, it is often referred to as the Vallabh style.

24 boxes, known as swaroops, were used in traditional Pichwai art, and each one featured Krishna, gopis, and other figures. However, only natural elements can be seen in contemporary Pichwai theme paintings. Therefore, there are no set guidelines for painting Pichwai.

Come let us know more about Pichwai history and some of the artists of this art

Pichwai Painting - History

Pichwai painting has a long history that began in the 17th century. The renowned Shrinathji temple is located in the Rajasthani city of Nathdwara, which is thought to be the birthplace of Pichwai art. Lord Krishna, referred to as Shrinathji's kid, is the object of devotion at this temple.

For devotees of Pushti Marg, a branch of Hinduism that worships Lord Krishna, the temple is regarded as one of the most sacred locations in India. As a result, this picture is sometimes referred to as the Shrinathji Pichwai painting or the Shreenath ji painting.

Artists around the Nathdwara district created Pichwai paintings. These artists started painting beautiful portrayals of events from Lord Krishna's life after being influenced by religious tales and legends about him.

Pichwai paintings have different themes that change according to the seasons. The painting depicting pink lotuses in summer contrasts with the one for Sharad Purnima, which features a bright full moon in a night scene. Other themes like Raas Leela, Holi, and Annakut (Govardhan Puja) are also present and showcased during their respective occasions.

Pichwai paintings and Vastu paintings for home is great and rich tradition.

Some of the Famous Pichwai Paintings are

  • Shrinathji in Black & Gold

  • Ras Leela – Krishna with Radha

  • Giriraja Pichwai – depicting Lord Krishna carrying Govardhana mountain on his little finger

  • Gopashtami – depicting Lord Krishna playing the flute around his herd of cows

  • Sharad Purnama Antique Pichwai painting – Krishna with Radha on a swing on a full moon night

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Materials used in Pichwai Painting

Another important component of this well-liked art style is the colors used in Pichwai paintings. Red, yellow, and green are among the vivid colors frequently used in the paintings; these colors are thought to represent Lord Krishna's vigor and energy. Typically, the paintings were painted on fabric or paper using natural colors derived from coal, indigo, gold, silver, and saffron, among other plants and minerals.

Cultural Value & Popularity of Pichwai Paintings in Modern Times

Pichwai paintings are used in Hindu temples, but they are also widely used as ornamental art. Kamdhenu paintings are frequently used to decorate houses and other interior spaces, acting as a visual reminder of Hinduism's spirituality and beauty. The Pichwai style of painting remains as highly popular among Indian traditional painters.

Numerous Rajasthani artisans are still producing Pichwai paintings today using traditional techniques and supplies. The main institution in Rajasthan where Pichwai painting is still taught using the centuries-old Guru-Shishya Parampara system is the Nathdwara Painting School.

These elaborate Pichwai paintings are becoming more and more popular, and you can even find them on garments like dupattas and sarees. For festive wear, bandhni Pichwai sarees and Pichwai digitally printed sarees are becoming popular.

Artists of Pichwai painting

  • Kalyanmal Sahu- Traditional Pichwai artist Kalyanmal Sahu has won national awards, and his work has been praised for his creative use of color and design.

  • Mohanlal Kumawat is renowned for his Pichwai artwork and has received numerous honors for it. His paintings are renowned for their exquisite color schemes and detailed designs.

  • Nathu Lal Verma gained fame for his use of gold leaf in his paintings and for his exquisite representations of Lord Krishna.

  • Rajendra Sharma- Rajendra Sharma is a contemporary Pichwai artist who has gained recognition for his innovative designs and use of natural dyes.

  • Vijay Sharma is a well-known Pichwai artist who has won many awards for his work. His paintings are known for their intricate designs and beautiful use of colour.

The world has been gifted with the captivating art form of Pichwai painting from the magnificent state of Rajasthan. Pichwai art, with its elaborate representations of Lord Krishna's holy life, encapsulates spirituality, history, and beauty in one stroke.

As we remember the vibrant colors, skilled artistry, and affection that go into each piece of art, let us not forget or undervalue Rajasthan's responsibility as the guardian of this priceless tradition.

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Most Frequently Asked Questions?

1. What is Pichwai painting?

Pichwai paintings are intricate paintings dedicated to Lord Shrinathji of Nathdwara in Rajasthan.

2. Which state is the origin of Pichwai Painting?

Rajasthan is a state in northwest India where Pichwai paintings are produced.

3. What does the word Pichwai mean?

Pichwai, which translates to "hanging at the back," is a word in Sanskrit that combines the concepts of "back" (Pich) and "hanging" (Wai).

4. Where can one learn to paint Pichwai?

The main establishment that still teaches Pichwai painting utilizing the guru-shishya parampara system and conventional methods is the Nathdwara Painting School in Rajasthan.

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