Chittara is an art form practised by different communities, particularly the Deevaru community in Karnataka. An indigenous folk art, it is a reflection of the culture and heritage of the region. CFRIA – Center for Revival of Indigenous Art, is a Bengaluru non-profit working to popularise Chittara. In their quest, the organization is set to present Deevara Chittara, a coffee-table book that documents this folk art. The book launch scheduled for 10th May 2025 is a step towards understanding, appreciating and preserving this unique art form.
What is Chittara?
Chittara are intricate drawings which for generations have been painted on walls to mark auspicious rituals and ceremonies. It is practised by several communities in the Maleandu region of Karnataka. However, the agrarian Deevaru community is highly regarded for their refinement in the art. Usually, 2-3 feet in height, the geometric patterns of the Chittara paintings are not only artistically brilliant but also mathematically inclined. The precision of ratios and proportions to create patterns and motifs inspired by the physical and cultural environment of the community is remarkable. Interestingly, the women of the Deevaru community are the main artists behind Chittara. Using eco-friendly and natural materials, the women have over the years expanded the scope of this folk art. From walls alone, it has now transitioned to paper and different products, including baskets, coasters, accessories and more.
Deevara Chittara
Deevara Chittara documents Chittara art as practised by the Deevaru community. It is the very first book documenting this art form and aims to be a valuable and comprehensive resource essential for the cultural preservation of Chittara. The book, combining images and texts, touches upon the various aspects of the art form, such as the use of natural materials, symbolism, role of women, social customs and more. It also sheds light on the culture of the community, their livelihood, attire, eco-friendly handicrafts etc. Moreover, the book creatively incorporates folk songs, riddles and proverbs, which are also made available online.
The book was pre-launched at the Kala Dhwani, a folk festival organized by Bharati Vidya Bhavan and Infosys Foundation, and also at the Karnataka Literature Festival at Vidhana Soudha. It is expected to be ready for distribution by mid-May. Pre-bookings can be done here.
CFRIA – Center for Revival of Indigenous Art
CFRIA is committed to preserving and reviving Indigenous arts in India. Over the last 20 years, it has worked extensively on Chittara, carving out a special space for this art form in the world. Geetha Bhat, the founder of CFRIA along with her team, has successfully engaged with the Deevaru community, conducting several showcase events, workshops etc. at cultural and educational institutions. The organisation has helped install Chittara murals at museums, offices, homes, commercial spaces, institutions and also at public spaces in Japan and France.
Besides Deevara Chittara, CFRIA also archives the art form through audio-video resources. It promotes Chittara through several outreach initiatives, such as exhibitions, experiential workshops, lecture demonstrations and more.
Deevara Chittara showcases Karnataka’s unique cultural landscape and celebrates the local art and heritage. It also makes for a perfect and mindful gift for visiting clients, senior officials, corporate leaders etc. Most importantly, collecting a copy of this enlightening book is a great way to encourage the artists, preserve the art form and applaud the efforts of CFRIA.
