Pichhwai (also spelled pichwai, pichhavai, pichhvai, or pechhavai), derives its name from the Sanskrit words "Pichh" meaning back and "wais" meaning hanging. These are large devotional Hindu paintings, typically created on cloth, that portray Krishna in various forms and narratives. They are mainly produced to be displayed in Hindu temples belonging to the Pushtimarg sect, particularly the Shrinathji Temple in Nathdwara, Rajasthan. Built around 1672, this temple is a central place of worship in the Pushtimarg tradition. Pichhwais are hung behind the idol of Shrinathji, a local form of Krishna, depicting his divine leelas (pastimes).
The Purpose and Function of Pichhwai
The primary purpose of pichhwais, aside from their artistic value, is to narrate stories of Krishna to those who are illiterate. These paintings serve as visual aids to convey complex narratives and devotional themes. Temples often have different sets of pichhwais that are changed according to the festival calendar, thus helping to celebrate various aspects and stories of the deity through the year.
Style of Painting and Iconography
The main subject in Pichhwai paintings is Shrinathji, a revered form of Krishna worshipped at the Shrinathji Temple. This form of Krishna is over 700 years old and is central to the Pushtimarg tradition. The paintings usually show the rituals and worship offered to Shrinathji in the temple. Modern pichhwais may also depict other forms of Krishna worshipped in the Pushtimarg tradition, such as Dwarkadish, the deity of the Dwarkadish Temple. While these paintings focus primarily on Shrinathji, they often include other deities and figures in the tradition, such as Yamunaji, Goswamis like Vallabhacharya, and various priests.
Themes and Depictions
Pichhwais serve two main functions within the Pushtimarg Sampradaya. First, they are used as backdrops in the inner sanctums of shrines and are changed daily according to the season, festival, and ritual of the day. Second, they act as artistic documentation of the worship practices within the faith. Each festival and ritual in Pushtimarg is an elaborate affair, and pichhwais showcase the adornment, emotions, mood, music, food, and dance that are part of the worship.
The daily worship of Shrinathji includes eight different formal viewings, each with specific adornments, which are often depicted in pichhwais. Festivals like Govardhan Puja, Sharad Purnima, Raslila, and Holi, among others, are vividly illustrated, showing the modes of worship and the items used. These paintings also serve as historical records, documenting how these festivals have been celebrated over the centuries.
Historical Development and Production
16th to 19th Century
When the Shrinathji Temple was established in 1672 CE, Vitthalnath, the chief priest and son of Pushtimarg founder Vallabhacharya, employed artisans to create pichhwais. These artworks were traditionally made on commission by the chief priest for religious worship and ceremonies. As the Pushtimarg sect spread to different parts of India, such as Gujarat and Mathura, the art style of pichhwai also spread and evolved.
Pichhwais were often taken by pilgrims as souvenirs from the Shrinathji Temple or commissioned by wealthy families. The intricate and elaborate nature of this art form also made it popular with theatre companies, which used these paintings as backdrops for their productions.
19th Century
During the 19th century, Westernized art school painting forms began to gain popularity among the Indian upper classes, overshadowing traditional styles like pichhwai. In response, pichhwai artisans started incorporating Western influences, such as oil paints and realism, into their work. For example, the feet in these paintings, especially those of Shrinathji, were sometimes drawn using the Western art technique of foreshortening, instead of the traditional sideways portrayal.
However, the Swadeshi movement, which encouraged support for traditional Indian art, culture, and music, also influenced this period. The religious nature of pichhwai art helped preserve its traditional styles, and many artisans continued to use traditional techniques.
Modern Day Production
Today, pichhwai paintings are a major export from Nathdwara and are in high demand among foreign visitors. The artists mainly live in Chitron ki Gali (Street of Paintings) and Chitrakaron ka Mohalla (Colony of Painters), forming a close-knit community. Often, creating a pichhwai is a group effort, with several skilled painters working together under the supervision of a master artist.
There has also been a push by other artists and designers to preserve and showcase pichhwai art to a wider, international audience. Designers have incorporated traditional colors, printing techniques, and patterns from pichhwai into clothing and showcased them on international platforms like Lakmé Fashion Week.
Artisans and Lineages
While little is known about the artisans before the 19th century, the pichhwai artists in Nathdwara come from three main sub-castes: the Adi Gaur, who claim to have migrated from Udaipur; the Jangirs, who migrated from Jaipur and Jodhpur; and the lesser-known Mewaras. These communities have played a crucial role in preserving and continuing the tradition of pichhwai painting.
Conclusion
Pichhwai paintings are not just beautiful works of art; they are a vital part of the Pushtimarg tradition, serving as devotional tools and historical records. From their origins in the Shrinathji Temple to their modern-day adaptations, pichhwais continue to captivate and inspire with their intricate details and vibrant depictions of Krishna's divine leelas. As efforts to preserve and promote this art form continue, pichhwai paintings remain a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of India.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What is the meaning of the word "Pichhwai"?
Pichhwai comes from the Sanskrit words "Pichh," meaning back, and "wais," meaning hanging. It refers to large devotional paintings that hang behind the idol of Shrinathji in Hindu temples.
- What is the primary subject of Pichhwai paintings?
The primary subject of Pichhwai paintings is Shrinathji, a form of Krishna worshipped in the Pushtimarg tradition. These paintings often depict his divine pastimes and rituals.
- Where did Pichhwai art originate?
Pichhwai art originated in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, particularly associated with the Shrinathji Temple, established in 1672 CE. The art form is also linked to the Pushtimarg devotional tradition.
- How has Pichhwai art evolved over time?
While traditional Pichhwai art focused on stylized depictions using natural colors, the 19th century saw some influence from Western painting techniques, including realism and the use of oil paints. However, many artists continued to preserve traditional methods.
- What role do Pichhwai paintings play in temples?
Pichhwai paintings are used as backdrops in Hindu temples, particularly in the inner sanctum behind the deity. They are changed according to the season, festival, or ritual being observed and help narrate the stories of Krishna to devotees.
