Indian culture lays emphasis on dharma or moral duty. It is believed that performance of one’s duty is more important than asserting one’s right. It also emphasizes the complementariness between one’s own duty and other’s rights. Thus, through the emphasis on community or family obligations, Indian culture promotes interdependence rather than independence and autonomy of the individual.

At the level of marriage, there is a lot of plurality in India. At the level of family, however, there is a striking similarity. For example, the ideal or norm of joint family is upheld by almost every Indian. Every person may not live in a joint household but the system of joint family is still favoured. The family is the defining feature of Indian culture. Although we differentiate between individual identity and family identity, the Western type of individualism is rare in Indian culture.
Another characteristic of Indian culture is social stratification. In every region of India, there are about 200 castes. The social structure is made of thousands of those castes and sub-castes, which decide the social status of a person on the basis of birth.

By fulfilling duties, a person can follow his religion while living in physical comforts and thus can gain salvation. Fulfilling duties is a characteristic of Indian culture. Four goals or duties are—Dharma (religion), Arth (money), Kama (lust) and Moksha (salvation). Religion is related to the fulfilment of moral duties. Money is related to the fulfilment of all needs. Lust is associated with pleasures in life. Salvation is the last goal.

If India’s culture tended to become tolerant, accommodating, open-minded, deeply but not ostensibly spiritual and concerned with the common human welfare, then it is due to the great and relentless efforts of our great ancestors and leaders. Thanks to them our country has achieved a common culture, despite a staggering pluralistic society. And I feel proud to be a part and parcel of this rich heritage and culture.

A special characteristic of Indian culture is its continuous flow. Since, Indian culture is based on values, so its development is continuous. Many centuries passed by, many changes occurred, many foreign invasions were faced, but the light of Indian culture today is continuously glowing. Indian culture can be understood by looking at its present cultural standards.

Language is another source of cultural diversity as well as unity. It contributes to collective identities and even to conflicts. Twenty-two languages are recognised by Indian Constitution. All major languages have regional and dialectical variations besides several other dialects. The situation is further complicated since 179 languages and 544 dialects are recognised in India.
Indian art is inspired by religion and centres around sacred themes. However, there is nothing ascetic or self-denying about it. The eternal diversity of life and nature and the human element are all reflected in Indian art forms. The art of architecture and sculpture was well developed during the Indus valley period. India has the largest collections of folk and tribal artefacts.

The popular term for music throughout India is Sangeet, which included dance as well as vocal instrumental music. The rhymes of the Rigveda and the Samveda are the earliest examples of words set to music. The oldest detailed exposition of Indian musical theory is found in Natyashastra, attributed to the sage Bharata who lived in the beginning of the Christian era. North Indian Hindustani classical music and South Indian Karnatak music are the two major forms of classical music in India. More specific schools of classical music are associated with particular gharanas.

Classical Indian dance is a beautiful and significant symbol of the spiritual and artistic approach of the Indian mind. Traditional Indian scriptures contain many references to nritta (music) and nata (drama). Dance and music are present at every stage of domestic life in India. Our country has a rich tradition of folklores, legends and myths, which combine with songs and dances into composite art forms.

Adaptability has a great contribution in making Indian culture immortal. It is an essential element of longevity of any culture. Indian culture has a unique property of adjustment, as a result of which, it is maintained till today. Indian family, caste, religion and institutions have changed themselves with time. Due to adaptability and co-ordination of Indian culture, its continuity, utility and activity still in vogue.

Receptivity is an important characteristic of Indian culture. It has always accepted the good of the invading cultures. It is like an ocean, in which many rivers come and meet. In the same way all castes succumbed to the Indian culture and very rapidly they dissolved in the Hindutva. Indian culture has always adjusted with other cultures, its ability to maintain unity amongst the diversities of all is the best. The reliability, which developed in this culture due to this receptivity, is a boon for this world and is appreciated by all. We have always adopted the properties of various cultures. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is the soul of Indian culture.

Spirituality is the soul of Indian culture. Here the existence of soul is accepted. Therefore, the ultimate aim of man is not physical comforts but is self-realisation. Nation became culture and culture became nation. Country took the form of Spiritual World, beyond the physical world. When Indian culture originated in the times of Rigveda, then it spread with time to Saptasindhu, Bramhavarta, Aryavarta, Jumbudweepa, Bharata Varsha or India. Because of its strength, it reached beyond the borders of India and established there also.

Religion has a central place in Indian culture. Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, Mahabharata, Gita, Agama, Tripitak, Quran and Bible influence the people of Indian culture. These books have developed optimism, theism, sacrifice, penance, restraints, good conduct, truthfulness, compassion, authenticity, friendliness, forgiveness, etc.

The post Karma and Solace first appeared on New Delhi Post.

As time unfolded, the Gupta and Maurya empires became patrons of art, nurturing the growth of painting traditions. The Ajanta and Ellora caves stand as living testimonials to the artistic prowess of this period, showcasing murals that reflect a harmonious blend of religious and secular themes.

Evolution and Development over the Centuries

The medieval period ushered in a new chapter, witnessing the rise of regional schools of art. Miniature paintings flourished under the patronage of various kingdoms. Each contributes a distinctive flavor to the artistic landscape. From the detailed elegance of Rajput miniatures to the narrative richness of Mughal paintings, the evolution of Indian traditional paintings became a vibrant tapestry of styles.

The colonial era brought both challenges and opportunities. While traditional ateliers faced disruptions, the fusion of Indian and Western styles gave birth to a unique blend. Artists adapted, incorporating new techniques and materials, creating a bridge between tradition and innovation.

Key Influences and Cultural Contexts

To truly understand Indian traditional paintings, one must grasp the profound influences that shaped them. Religious narratives, mythology, and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata have been recurring motifs, providing artists with a rich source of inspiration. The caste system also played a role, with certain styles associated with specific communities.

Cultural contexts, too, played a pivotal role. The vibrant festivals, rituals, and societal norms found expression on canvases, creating a visual chronicle of the times. The courtly traditions of the Mughals, the devotional fervor of the Bhakti movement, and the everyday life of the common people all found their place in the evolving panorama of Indian Traditional Paintings.

Indian Traditional Painting is a treasure trove of artistic styles, each telling a unique story. The intricate details of Mughal miniature paintings transport us to the grandeur of royal courts. On the other hand, the bold strokes of Rajput Paintings evoke a sense of passion and courage. The Tanjore School, with its rich embellishments and vivid colors, brings mythology to life on canvas. Exploring these styles unveils not just artistic techniques but provides a window into the historical and cultural contexts that birthed them.

From the Himalayan foothills to the southern tip of India, the regional variations in traditional painting are as diverse as the landscapes that inspire them. The Kangra School, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, captures the serenity of the hills in its delicate compositions. Moving south, the vivid narratives of Mysore’s painting unfold, showcasing meticulous details and a burst of colors. The unique characteristics of each region’s art are a testament to the cultural tapestry that weaves through the subcontinent.

Beyond the strokes and colors, Indian traditional painting is a reflection of the rich tapestry of themes and subjects that have fascinated artists through the ages. From mythological epics to poetic landscapes, each painting tells a story. The Pahari School, for instance, beautifully encapsulates the essence of nature and love in its Kangra and Basohli paintings. Meanwhile, the Kalighat Paintings of Bengal delve into social narratives with wit and satire. The diversity of themes not only showcases artistic versatility but also provides a glimpse into the cultural ethos of different eras.

Indian Traditional Painting is a captivating symphony of styles, regional nuances, and thematic richness. Beyond being mere brushstrokes on canvas, it unfolds as a profound odyssey through the corridors of time. It stands as a triumphant commemoration of diversity, a living testament to the unwavering spirit of creativity that has painted the vibrant tapestry of the Indian subcontinent across the epochs.

In the intricate tapestry of Indian Traditional Paintings, symbols speak louder than words. From the lotus symbolizing purity to the peacock representing beauty, this deep dive unveils the rich tapestry of symbols that artists employ to convey layers of meaning. Each stroke becomes a silent narrator, weaving a narrative that transcends time and culture.

Contemporary artists, inspired by the vivid palette of Indian Traditional Painting, are redefining its boundaries. Through innovative techniques and a fresh perspective, they infuse these ageless art forms with modern vitality. The canvas becomes a playground for experimentation. Artists seamlessly blend traditional styles with avant-garde elements, giving birth to a new visual language.

Delving into the intricacies of modern interpretations reveals a fascinating interplay of colors and concepts. Traditional themes are reborn with a contemporary twist, allowing the art to resonate with a diverse audience. The evolution is not merely a departure from tradition but a dynamic dialogue between the old and the new.

The post Exploring Indian Art first appeared on New Delhi Post.