The Fisher Tribes of Chilika

A coastal-themed Pattachitra of tribal fishermen casting nets in Odisha’s Chilika Lake.

• Cotton cloth is used as the painting base.

• The cloth is coated with a smoothening paste made from:

  • Chalk powder (sankha churna)

  • Tamarind seed gum (as adhesive)

• Once dry, it is polished with a stone or coconut shell to give a leathery, glossy surface ideal for detailed work.

2. Natural Pigments (For Water, Nets, Boats, and Sky)

• Blue (for water and sky): Made from indigo leaf extract

• White (for waves, nets, and highlights): Created by grinding conch shells

• Brown and Earth tones (for boats and skin tones): From red ochre, tree bark, or natural clay

• Black (for outlines and fine detailing): Produced from lamp soot or burnt coconut shells

• Green (for surrounding vegetation): From plant-based pigments

• Yellow and Red (for clothing and borders): From turmeric, haritala, and hingula minerals

• All pigments are blended with tamarind seed gum to ensure strong color adhesion and longevity.

3. Brushes

• Brushes are handmade using animal hair (like squirrel or mongoose), tied to slender bamboo sticks

• Fine brushes allow for the intricate rendering of fishermen, nets, waves, and boats

4. Framing (Optional)

• The artwork may be bordered with traditional Pattachitra floral or wave motifs, or framed using natural wood such as Kashadandi or Lashadandi to complement the rustic coastal theme

5. Finishing Touch

• A final layer of natural lacquer or shellac can be applied to preserve the painting and give it a subtle gloss