Cheriyal Paintings: Telangana’s Storytelling Art on Cloth

Cheriyal Paintings are a distinctive form of traditional Indian folk art that originated in the present-day state of Telangana. Known for their vivid red backgrounds, bold lines, and expressive figures, these paintings are more than decorative art forms, they are visual storytelling traditions deeply rooted in Indian mythology and community life.

Traditionally painted on khadi or cotton cloth, Cheriyal Paintings were once created as long narrative scrolls measuring 10 to 30 meters, used to narrate stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and local folklore. Over time, this art form evolved to adapt to modern formats while preserving its original narrative essence.

Historical Origins of Cheriyal Paintings

The roots of Cheriyal Paintings can be traced back several centuries to the Cheriyal town of Warangal district. This art developed as a community-based storytelling medium, closely associated with itinerant bards and storytellers.

The Kaki Padagollu community played a crucial role in preserving and propagating Cheriyal Paintings. These artists used painted scrolls as visual aids while orally narrating epic tales, folk legends, and moral stories during village gatherings. This made Cheriyal Paintings an early form of audio-visual communication in rural India.

Narrative Tradition and Cultural Role

Unlike framed paintings meant only for display, Cheriyal Paintings were designed to unfold sequentially, scene by scene, much like a visual manuscript.

Key Narrative Themes:

• Stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata

• Puranic legends

• Local heroes and folklore

• Social and moral tales

Each painting panel represents a specific episode, enabling the storyteller to guide audiences through complex narratives in an engaging and accessible way.

Distinctive Visual Characteristics of Cheriyal Paintings

Cheriyal Paintings are instantly recognizable due to their bold and symbolic visual language.

Key Features:

• Dominant red background, traditionally made from natural pigments

• Flat, two-dimensional figures

• Strong black outlines

• Expressive facial features and gestures

• Minimal perspective

The red background is not merely aesthetic, it enhances contrast and draws focus to the characters and storyline.

Materials and Traditional Techniques

Traditionally, Cheriyal Paintings were created on hand-prepared khadi or cotton cloth.

Preparation Process:

1. Cloth is treated with natural starch and resin

2. Surface is smoothened using stone or shell

3. Natural colors derived from minerals and plants are applied

Even today, many artists follow these traditional methods to maintain authenticity, though cardboard and canvas are sometimes used for contemporary formats.

Evolution from Scrolls to Contemporary Products

While traditional scroll paintings remain culturally significant, Cheriyal Paintings have successfully adapted to modern lifestyles.

Modern Applications:

• Decorative wall panels

• Masks and ceremonial items

• Marriage gifts

• Jewellery boxes

• Brass paintings

• Greeting cards

This adaptation has helped the art survive changing consumer preferences while retaining its narrative identity.

Community-Based Art Practice

Cheriyal Paintings are not the work of isolated individuals but a collective cultural practice.

The Kaki Padagollu community continues to pass down artistic knowledge through generations. Each artist learns not only painting techniques but also the stories, symbols, and narrative rhythms associated with the art.

This community-based transmission makes Cheriyal Paintings a living tradition rather than a static art form.

GI Registration and Legal Protection

To preserve authenticity and protect artisans, Cheriyal Paintings received Geographical Indication (GI) status, recognizing their unique regional identity.

GI Registered Product Data Box

This registration falls under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, helping prevent misuse and imitation.

Symbolism and Storytelling Style

Each element in Cheriyal Paintings carries symbolic meaning.

• Colors represent emotions and moral tones

• Gestures convey action and drama

• Placement of figures guides narrative flow

The absence of background landscapes ensures that viewers focus entirely on the story and characters.

Contemporary Relevance and Revival

With growing interest in indigenous art, sustainable crafts, and cultural storytelling, Cheriyal Paintings have found renewed appreciation among urban and international audiences.

Government initiatives, NGOs, and craft trusts are working to:

• Train young artists

• Promote exhibitions

• Enable digital and e-commerce sales

This revival ensures continuity while respecting tradition.

Explore more handcrafted paintings here.