Cheriyal, an ancient art form originating from Telangana, India, captivates with its vibrant colours and intricate narrative style. Skilled artisans meticulously paint tales from mythology and folklore onto cloth canvases, using natural dyes and bold strokes to bring each scene to life. Cheriyal paintings, characterized by their distinctive storytelling panels, depict an array of mythological figures, gods, goddesses, and celestial beings. Each stroke of the brush carries deep symbolism, conveying the essence of timeless tales passed down through generations. At the heart of this artistic exposition lies the epic saga of the Ramayana, rendered with exquisite detail and reverence. The story unfolds in vivid hues, from the noble deeds of Lord Rama to the valiant efforts of Hanuman and the devotion of Sita. Every panel pulsates with emotion, capturing the essence of love, sacrifice, and triumph against adversity. As travellers pause to admire this Cheriyal masterpiece, they are transported to a realm where gods walk among mortals, and the forces of good and evil collide in epic battles. The Ramayana, depicted through Cheriyal artwork, serves as a timeless reminder of the eternal struggle between righteousness and tyranny, echoing themes of courage, loyalty, and the triumph of virtue. Amidst the transient chaos of travel, may the beauty and narrative depth of Cheriyal artwork inspire travellers to reflect on the profound wisdom embedded within ancient tales. As they journey onward, may they carry with them the timeless lessons of the Ramayana, finding solace and inspiration in the enduring power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit
Sai Kiran, a 27-year-old artist, is credited with carrying on the history of the Dhanalakota family, the last practising family for Cheriyal Scroll painting. A 160-year old Cheriyal scroll painted by his great-great grandpa is also on display in a museum in Paris, providing insight into his family's past. With the market for Cheriyal scrolls decreasing, his parents advised him to study rather than pursue painting, but Sai Kiran obtained a degree in fine arts to acquire new art techniques to modernise and make his work relevant in today's times. He wishes the Cheriyal scroll painters knew more about the stories they are painting, because the storytellers for these paintings are autonomous and add their own colour to the stories, but he makes an attempt to study these stories, and his personal favourite is Gaurapuranama's, about Toddy Tappers (Wine tappers). 'We replace our phones every year, our phone covers every two months, change is such a constant, therefore our work needs to stay up with it and adapt,' Sai Kiran says.
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