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Writer's pictureAkanksha Shukla

Preserving Tradition, Innovating Art - The Story of a upcoming Pattachitra Maestro

In the quaint village of Raghurajpur, nestled in the heart of Odisha, Sachikant Sahoo breathes life into the ancient art form of Pattachitra. Hailing from a lineage of revered artists, Sachikant carries on the legacy of his forefathers with unwavering dedication and a vision to usher Pattachitra into the modern era.


Sachikant Sahoo on his home in Raghurajpur breathing life into a canvas

Born and raised amidst the vibrant hues and intricate strokes of this traditional painting style, Sachikant's journey into the world of Pattachitra began at the tender age of Thirteen. Under the guidance of his father, he learned the nuances of the art form, mastering the techniques passed down through generations.


Raghurajpur, Sachikant's ancestral village, stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. Renowned as an official art village for Pattachitra, it draws visitors from far and wide, eager to witness the mastery of local artisans like Sachikant. Here, amidst the rustic charm of village life, Sachikant continues to hone his craft, preserving the authenticity of Pattachitra while infusing it with contemporary elements to captivate a new generation of art enthusiasts.


Beyond the traditional canvas, Sachikant's creativity knows no bounds. From lampshades to coconut shells, papier-mâché to clothing, he adorns various mediums with the timeless beauty of Pattachitra, breathing new life into everyday objects. Through his shop in the village and participation in exhibitions, Sachikant showcases his creations, inviting patrons to experience the allure of Pattachitra in diverse forms.


Embracing modernity, Sachikant harnesses the power of technology to amplify his reach. With a presence on Instagram, he connects with a global audience, attracting inquiries and sales from admirers near and far. Yet, amidst the digital age, he grapples with the challenge of counterfeit copies flooding the market, threatening the authenticity of handmade treasures like Pattachitra.


True to tradition, Sachikant meticulously prepares his canvas, using natural materials sourced from the earth. From cotton clothing coated with a mixture of chalk and gum to colors derived from vegetables and mineral rocks, every element of his artwork resonates with the essence of nature. Even the brushes, crafted from the hair of domestic animals, reflect his commitment to authenticity.


As a custodian of his craft, Sachikant imparts his knowledge to the next generation, ensuring that the legacy of Pattachitra endures. Yet, he faces formidable challenges, from the rising costs of natural materials to the dwindling avenues for marketing authentic artwork. Despite these hurdles, Sachikant remains steadfast in his mission, believing that the intrinsic beauty and cultural significance of Pattachitra will continue to inspire generations to come.


In Sachikant Sahoo, we find not just an artist, but a guardian of tradition, a beacon of innovation, and a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend time and space. As he paints the canvas of his life with strokes of passion and purpose, Sachikant Sahoo stands as a true maestro of Pattachitra, enriching our world with the timeless beauty of this ancient art form.


To reach out to Sachikant or Buy the beautiful artworks produced by him, please write to us at contact@craftique-hub.com

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