GLORY AND GLOSS OF TANJORE PAINTINGS

 

 

India is a country known for its diverse culture and heritage. Among the Indian states, Tamil Nadu in south India is a land of enchanting beauty with five major landforms -   Kurinji (hilly backwoods), Mullai (pastoral tract), Marutam (wet land), Neythal (littoral land) and Paalai (parched zones).

Tanjore /thanjavur lies in the Marutam, ruled by Raja Raja Chola. With his majestic ruling the region was surplus in crops and had great interest and time for fine arts. The main reason of the success and prosperity of the region is mostly credited to the holy river Kauvery.

“Vaan poyyinum thaan poyya,

 Malaitthalaiya kadar kaaviri

 Punal parandhu pon kozhikkum”        - (Pattinap paalai)

Water is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival itself. It is vital in reducing the burden of disease and improving the health, welfare and productivity of people.

TANJORE OUTSHINES IN ART AND MUSIC:

From the time immemorial a lot of recognition in the field of fine arts is gained by Tanjore.  Music, dance, paintings, handicrafts, weaving, sculpture, pottery, agriculture were all at excellent standards in the region. Tanjore has contributed outstandingly for the development of Literature and fine arts. Many stalwarts were produced from this land in the field of arts and music.

SPECIALITY OF TANJORE:

“Chola naadu soru udaitthadhu”

Tanjore is considered as the birth place of paddy production. With the perennial water resource around good returns were guaranteed after every harvest.  Export of the crop was also carried out in large scales.

Next to this crop, the section of architecture comes forward with its marvel.  One such example of their exemplary skill is the magnanimous Brihadeeshwara temple.  Apart from this, Tanjore dolls, sliver plates, music instruments, and Tanjore paintings stand as a symbol of the region.

Tanjore is a district headquarters with many historical places and monuments in the town. Schools. College, libraries, also are referred for their place in the glory of Tanjore.

UNIQUENESS OF TANJORE PAINTING:

It is the native art form of Tanjore which is locally known as 'Palagai Padam' as it is mainly done on solid wood planks. The theme of Tanjore Painting is of Hindu Gods and Goddesses, along with saints. The solid composition, surface richness and vibrant colours are the specialty of these paintings. Tanjore Painting, as we know it today, originated under the patronage of the Maratha rulers of Tanjore in the 17th century CE and flourished under the most famous ruler of the line, Maharaja Serfoji II (1777-1832 CE), a great patron of learning and the arts.

 

One of the most distinguishing features of Tanjore art is the gold that's used in creating these paintings. The gold is usually placed on an embossed part of the canvas which gives these paintings depth in their appearance. Tanjore Painting is the only painting to have EMBOSS on it. That is, the painting has areas that are ELEVATED from the surface. The other feature is the Real Gold Foil used to stick on the EMBOSSED areas - 22 carat gold foil is used. It is made of real gold and it never fades. It received a GI tag in the year 2007- 2008.

As it is drawn using gold and silver bits, plates and enamels it is expensive to buy. Predominantly images of God and goddess are drawn in this special art form.  Initially Lord Krishna and Goddess Mahalakshmi are the famous ones in this category of paintings. At later date all the gods and Goddess are also drawn in this painting form. It is supported by a thick wooden frame of first quality.

IN HOUSEHOLDS:

From the ancient days, the households of Tamil Nadu will have at least one Tanjore painting at home and that can be found in main entrance or in the Pooja room.  The walls of the Tamil households are adorned either with Raja Ravi Verma’s painting or a Tanjore painting. It adds gloss and grace to the house. Having a painting of God and Goddess at home is believed to bring peace and prosperity.  This is treated in equivalent with idols of Gods and Holy Scriptures. Even today the vaastu experts suggest to hang Tanjore paintings, which will bring auspice and good luck to the home.

SIGNIFICANCE TILL TO DATE

 Tanjore paintings are known for their extravagant depictions of deities using vibrant colours and gaudy embellishments, especially gold foil. Though the artform has undergone various changes over the years, it continues to be popular with lovers of art even today, and inspires many artists with its truly Indian style.

Tanjore paintings are a one of a kind art that had a phenomenal recognition and reach around the world. Though the origin of the painting dates back to the age of Marathas and it is widely practised by many till to date. Specialised classes and coaching are given for the students who joined to pursue it as a course. The one who gains an extraordinary talent in this painting skill shines well and plans to spread it far and wide.