What is phad paintings?

Phad painting is a traditional style of folk painting that originated in Rajasthan, India. The word 'phad' comes from the Sanskrit word 'patta' which means cloth. This style of painting is done on a long piece of cloth that is used as a scroll.

The themes of phad painting are usually religious, mythological or folk tales, and the paintings often depict stories of Rajasthan's deities and heroes. The colors used are bright and vivid and are made from natural dyes. The paintings usually have a single color background and are framed with ornate borders.

Phad painting is a community art form which is practiced by a specific community of Rajasthani painters, who are known as 'Chippas.' The unique feature of this art form is that it is never sold, but is rented out to traveling performers who use the scrolls as a backdrop for musical performances. The phad paintings are unfurled horizontally during the performances and are read from left to right.

Phad painting has been recognized as an important traditional Indian art form and has been given the Geographical Indication (GI) status by the government of India to protect its authenticity and uniqueness. Despite this, the art form is struggling to survive due to the lack of patronage and support.