RURAL VILLAGE LIFE: CHERIYAL SCROLL PAINTING by Sai Kiran

Cheriyal Scroll

  Cheriyal scroll painting is a traditional art form that originated in the Cheriyal village of Telangana, India. It is a rich narrative art form used for storytelling, with scrolls depicting tales from mythology, folklore, and the epics. These vibrant, hand-painted scrolls are a key aspect of the cultural heritage of Telangana, with a history that spans several centuries. Known for their bold colors, intricate details, and the ability to communicate stories visually, Cheriyal scroll paintings have been an integral part of rural storytelling traditions in India. Cheriyal scrolls primarily depict stories from Hindu mythology, including episodes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas. They also illustrate local folklore, rural life, and traditional customs, often providing a vivid portrayal of the socio-cultural environment of the region. Themes of devotion, heroism, morality, and the triumph of good over evil are prevalent in these paintings. Scenes from the lives of gods, goddesses, kings, and common folk are represented in dynamic compositions that evoke a sense of movement and action. History Cheriyal scroll painting has its roots in the ancient practice of visual storytelling. This art form is believed to date back more than 500 years, originating as a way for wandering storytellers to narrate epics, local legends, and moral tales to rural audiences. Storytellers, known as “Kaki Padagollu,” would travel from village to village, unrolling these scrolls as they narrated stories in song or verse. The paintings would depict different episodes from the tales, serving as a visual aid to engage listeners. Over time, this storytelling tradition became less prominent, but the art form itself has been preserved and is now recognized as a cultural treasure of Telangana. Cheriyal scrolls are known for their distinctive style, characterized by vibrant colors, bold outlines, and a clear narrative structure. The scrolls are long, with multiple panels that each depict a different scene or episode from a story. The style is heavily influenced by local folk art traditions, with exaggerated expressions and simplified figures that enhance the storytelling aspect. The composition is often divided into horizontal panels, with each panel containing a self-contained narrative. Cheriyal paintings are typically not realistic; rather, they are highly stylized, with a focus on storytelling rather than naturalistic depiction. Materials and Methods Cheriyal scroll paintings are made using natural materials, which gives them their characteristic richness and durability. The base of the scroll is usually made from a combination of khadi cotton cloth and tamarind seed paste, which is coated with a mixture of white mud, rice starch, and gum to create a smooth surface for painting. The artists then draw the outlines of the figures and scenes with natural black ink before filling in the vibrant colors. Traditionally, the colors are made from natural pigments—red from tamarind seeds, yellow from turmeric, and blue from indigo. The brushes used are made from squirrel hair to allow for intricate detailing. Significance Cheriyal scroll paintings hold immense cultural and historical significance. As an ancient narrative art form, they served as a vital medium of education and entertainment in rural India, helping to preserve and propagate stories, values, and traditions across generations. The scrolls are also a testament to the region’s artistic heritage, showcasing the creativity, craftsmanship, and storytelling prowess of the local artisans. Today, Cheriyal scroll paintings are not only valued for their artistic beauty but also for their role in preserving India’s rich oral and visual storytelling traditions. Efforts to revive and sustain this art form have been successful, and Cheriyal scrolls now enjoy recognition both in India and internationally for their unique cultural and artistic contributions. FAQs Can I request a custom Cheriyal Scroll Painting? Yes, we offer customized Cheriyal Scroll Paintings where you can choose the theme, size, and specific episodes you want to feature. Please reach out to us for more information on custom orders. What sizes are available for Cheriyal Scroll Paintings? Cheriyal Scroll Paintings come in a variety of sizes, from smaller pieces ideal for home decor to large, detailed scrolls. You can also request custom sizes to fit your space. How long does it take to make a Cheriyal Scroll Painting? The time required to make a Cheriyal Scroll depends on the size and complexity of the design. Smaller pieces may take a few days, while larger, detailed scrolls can take weeks to complete. Do you offer international shipping for Cheriyal Scroll Paintings? Yes, we provide international shipping for Cheriyal Scroll Paintings. Shipping fees and delivery times may vary depending on your location. Please check our shipping policy for more details.