রঙের জাদুতে জীবন্ত কাহিনী : অস্তিত্ব সংকটে থাকা ঝাড়খণ্ডের পটশিল্প ও পটুয়া গীত / Stories Brought to Life Through the Magic of Color: Jharkhand’s 'Pata' Art and 'Patua' Songs Facing an Existential Crisis

Abstract

The Patachitra art and Patua songs of Jharkhand represent a unique tradition of Indian folk art, where the harmonious fusion of colour, art, voice, and melody create vivid narrative expressions. The artistic practice of the Patua community traditionally combined storytelling, painting, and singing. For centuries, the patuas of Jharkhand travelled from village to village, narrating moral and mythological tales through songs while illustrating them with scroll paintings known as Patachitra. The songs performed alongside these painted scrolls are popularly known as Pater Gaan or Patua songs. This integrated artistic tradition has long served as an important medium of education, religious belief, entertainment, moral instruction, and social awareness within tribal and rural societies. However, rapid urbanisation, the expansion of digital media, and the socio-economic marginalisation of artists have placed this folk tradition under severe threat. A further challenge is the lack of adequate scholarly research on the Patua community in Jharkhand, resulting in insufficient documentation of their artistic heritage, social identity, cultural practices, and contemporary struggles. The present study explores the significance of Patachitra art, its regional variations, and the challenges it faces in the contemporary period. It also highlights the role of preservation initiatives, such as government support, exhibitions, and community-based efforts, in sustaining this endangered cultural tradition. Therefore, the Patachitra art and Patua songs of Jharkhand are not merely artistic expressions; they constitute a living history painted in colours, reflecting human emotions, hidden social narratives, and the broader spirit of folk culture. Preserving this heritage is essential for safeguarding an invaluable cultural legacy for future generations.