In Gujarat’s core area lies a tradition known as Mata ni pachedi that flourishes due to the commitment of the Chitara family. This art form involves painting on cotton textiles. It has been preserved and handed down by generations for more than four hundred years. It serves as a vessel for tales of significance and cultural heritage that continue to be honoured and celebrated.
Historical Significance of Mata ni Pachedi Artwork
The Craft Behind the Canvas
The Mata ni pachedis were initially crafted as offerings to honour their goddess near Maa Setrojia temple and mean "behind the Mother Goddess" These sacred artworks are traditionally handcrafted using hues and cotton fabric. Creating these pieces of artistry that depict stories of devotion and tradition passed down through generations in Gujarat's communities involves treating cloth with hard earth powder for dyeing purposes.
The rich black hue is achieved through a process involving fermented iron rust and jaggery, while vibrant red tones are extracted from alum. Orange hues stem from kattha, and soothing greens are derived from mehendi leaves. Deep blues come to life from indigo sources.
The vibrant hues are meticulously applied to the patterns sketched with bamboo sticks—a tool that remains popular even today alongside modern brushes. The painted fabric is then cleansed in the Sabarmati River and simmered with thawli flowers to fix the colours.
Don't Miss: Mata Ni Pachedi: A Blend of Tradition and Art
Every pachedi tells a story through its details of Hindu gods and goddesses mingled with tales of village life and folklore woven into its fabric by artists who rely on their experience and imagination rather than preliminary sketches to create each masterpiece. Unbroken Lineage and Evolution
The Chitara lineage boasts a heritage spanning back six generations and has meticulously preserved its family history on commemorative stones. In times like droughts and moves from Viramgam taluka to Khanpur, in Ahmedabad district, their skills have remained strong despite changes and modern advancements.
Throughout the years, art has remained true to its roots; however, there have been some changes along the way. At one point, the family opted for materials like mud and wooden blocks to create their pieces. Nowadays, they have reverted to using handmade techniques as there is a renewed value placed on craftsmanship.
From Temples to Textiles
Mata ni pachedis were traditionally considered art pieces for temple art collectors but have now found their way onto saris and other textiles, as well as home decor items like bedsheets depicting nature scenes and the Tree of Life.
Today, temples continue to offer versions and the practice of immersing them in rivers, even after wear and tear persists; wearable art forms ensure that this age-old tradition remains a part of everyday life.
A Living Heritage
The Chitaras use materials from textile markets in Ahmedabad. They utilise natural dyes to create new designs while honouring their traditions. They believe that there will always be a demand for this art form.
Mata ni Pachedia transcends artistry. It embodies a legacy that thrives through generations. We owe a debt of gratitude to families such as Chitara for ensuring that its vibrant hues endure for ages to come.
