Bhubaneswar: On India’s 80th Independence Day, Odisha’s pattachitra represented the country’s rich cultural heritage. The spotlight was turned to this age old art form as Nita Ambani endorsed it by draping a hand-painted pattachitra saree during the Independence day celebration.
According to reports, pattachitra artist Prashanta Moharana painted the motifs along with patta artists and weavers from Raghurajpur on Tussar silk. The saree depicted the central motif of ‘Tree of Life’. This motif has been inspired by the Vedic Ashvattha, symbolizing creation and interconnectedness.
The saree was designed under the label of ‘Swadesh’, which described it as a ‘living canvas’ showcasing Odisha’s artistic heritage.
Nita Ambani, who is also the founder of Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC), adopted the look at a time when The Great Indian Musical: Civilization to Nation is returning to the Grand Theatre at NMACC.
She paired the saree with a matching blouse featuring a red-and-black border, keeping the styling classic. She allowed the artwork to remain the centrepiece and accessorised the drape with layered traditional necklaces, statement earrings, bangles and a ring.
The occasion came as a celebration for the artists of Odisha’s Raghurajpur, a village where each family practices the artform. Raghurajpur is also India’s first heritage crafts village, located in Puri district. It is celebrated worldwide for its traditional Pattachitra paintings, palm-leaf engravings, and as the birthplace of Odissi exponent Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra.
Pattachitra Paintings are scroll paintings, depicting intricate designs—often mythological scenes— on dried palm leaves. These are painted using natural organic colours made from natural stones, shells, and plants.
