Divine Synthesis: Nabagunjara Tree of Life – Orissa Pattachitra Painting

Provenance

This Tree of Life Nabagunjara painting originates from the classical Pattachitra tradition of Odisha, a lineage that flourished in the 12th century alongside the construction of the sacred Jagannath Temple. The devotional culture of Jagannatha inspired artists to create painted cloth scrolls that functioned as visual scriptures, narrating mythological episodes and conveying Vaishnavite philosophy through disciplined composition and symbolic precision.

Rooted in rigorous craftsmanship, Pattachitra artists traditionally prepare the canvas by layering cloth with tamarind-seed adhesive and rice paste, then polishing it to achieve a smooth, resilient surface. In this contemporary adaptation, fine Tussar silk serves as the base. Natural and oil pigments derived from flowers, leaves, fruits, and minerals are applied with bold, clean, and angular linework — a hallmark of Odisha’s classical aesthetic. Ornate borders, rhythmic patterns, and stylized forms reflect the visual influence of Odissi and Gotipua traditions, translating movement into intricate design.

The integration of Nabagunjara within the Tree of Life motif deepens the symbolic framework of the composition. Nabagunjara — a composite form of nine beings — represents the unified manifestation of divine energies, while the Tree of Life signifies creation, continuity, and interconnected existence. Together, they articulate cosmic balance: roots anchoring the earthly realm and branches ascending toward spiritual transcendence. Recognized for its cultural importance, Odisha Pattachitra received Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2008 as the 70th GI-tagged product of India. This artwork has been handcrafted by Shri Prasanna Nayak of Odisha, preserving a centuries-old devotional legacy within a refined contemporary format.

Disclaimer: 

• The frames shown are for display purposes only and are not included with the artwork.
• As these are made-to-order designer pieces, expect minor colour variations from the displayed artwork