Why in news?
The Department of Posts successfully transported a large Thanjavur painting depicting Lord Rama from Bengaluru to Ayodhya using its Logistics Post service. The artwork, measuring 12 feet by 8 feet and weighing about 800 kilograms, was professionally packed and escorted across five states before being installed at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi site. This mission highlighted India Post’s ability to handle precious cultural cargo with care.
Background
Thanjavur paintings, also known as Tanjore paintings, are a classical art form from the town of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. They emerged around 1600 AD when the Nayaka rulers, under the patronage of the Vijayanagara Empire, encouraged the arts. The style evolved during the Maratha period (17th–19th centuries) and later incorporated influences from Deccani, Vijayanagara and European “Company” styles. In 2007–08 the Government of India granted Thanjavur paintings a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising their unique regional character.
Characteristics of Thanjavur painting
- Panel paintings: Traditional works are created on wooden boards (often jackfruit or teak) or on canvas mounted on wood – hence the local term palagai padam (“picture on a plank”).
- Gesso relief: Artisans use a mixture of chalk powder, gypsum and glue (gesso) to build up embossed motifs around figures and ornamental arches. Once dry, these raised surfaces are highlighted with gold foil.
- Gold foil and stones: Thin sheets of gold are applied over the gesso work, giving the paintings a luminous appearance. In some pieces, glass beads or semi‑precious stones are embedded to enhance the opulence.
- Vibrant colours: Artists use bright reds, blues, greens and whites derived from mineral and vegetable pigments. The central deity or figure is typically larger than surrounding elements, set within an architectural frame.
- Themes: Most paintings depict Hindu gods and goddesses – Krishna with his gopis, Ganesha, Lakshmi or scenes from the epics. Occasionally Jain, Sikh or secular subjects also appear. Figures are stylised with rounded faces and almond‑shaped eyes.
Significance
Thanjavur paintings are cherished for their devotional content and craftsmanship. They combine sculpture, painting and jewellery‑making techniques to create sacred icons for temples and homes. The recent transportation of a giant Thanjavur artwork underscores not only the continuing popularity of this centuries‑old tradition but also the readiness of modern institutions like India Post to protect and promote cultural heritage.
Conclusion
By preserving traditional methods and adapting to contemporary tastes, Thanjavur painters have kept their art alive for more than four centuries. Recognising and safeguarding such heritage – whether by obtaining GI protection or by developing specialised logistics – helps ensure that future generations can appreciate these luminous works of devotion.
Source: Press Information Bureau
