Namma Choice - Cultural Market

In India, walls are not just structures — they are canvases of time. From the heart of Kerala’s temples to the desert havelis of Rajasthan, India’s mural paintings are more than just visual art — they are historical, spiritual, and cultural records that have been passed down through centuries. Welcome to the colorful, detailed, and symbolic world of Indian mural painting — where every stroke carries a legend, and every pigment holds a purpose. --- 🕉️ Origin of Mural Paintings in India Mural painting is one of the oldest art forms known to India. Archaeological and literary evidence traces this tradition as far back as the 2nd century BCE, starting with the Ajanta caves in Maharashtra, which feature some of the finest examples of ancient murals. These early murals were spiritual and royal in nature, painted on walls using natural pigments and organic tools. Temples, caves, palaces, and even tribal huts across India have served as the base for these eternal artwo...

🪶 What Are Kolhapuri Chappals? Kolhapuri Chappals are handcrafted leather sandals originating from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, known for their intricate design, long-lasting quality, and deep cultural roots. Made using vegetable-tanned leather, and crafted entirely by hand—without nails or machines—these chappals are symbols of Indian rural artistry and heritage. --- 🛕 When & How It Was Created The roots of Kolhapuri Chappals trace back to the 12th century, during the reign of King Bijjala of Bidar and his visionary minister Basavanna, who encouraged artisanal work and supported the leather-working community. The craft gained wide recognition in the early 20th century, especially under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the ruler of Kolhapur, who promoted local artisans and helped establish the chappal’s cultural and economic value. --- 📍 Where Are They Made? Kolhapuri Chappals are traditionally made in: Maharashtra: Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur Karnataka: Belgaum, Bagalkot,...

🌕 What is Guru Purnima? Guru Purnima is a sacred day celebrated across India to honour the Guru – the one who dispels darkness (Gu) and brings light (Ru). Observed on the full moon day (Purnima) of Ashadha month (June–July), this occasion transcends religion, language, and region. It is a deep cultural expression of gratitude, wisdom, and inner transformation. In India, a Guru is not just a teacher – they are seen as a guide, mentor, philosopher, and spiritual torchbearer. From scriptures to soil, from classical dance to digital entrepreneurship – every field has its Gurus. --- 📜 Origin and Spiritual Significance 🕉️ Maharshi Ved Vyasa – The Adi Guru Guru Purnima is also called Vyasa Purnima, in honour of Maharshi Ved Vyasa, the legendary sage who: Composed the Mahabharata, India’s epic of ethics, duty, and dharma Compiled and classified the four Vedas Shaped the foundation of Sanatana Dharma He is considered the first Guru (Adi Guru) of the Vedic tradition — a transmitte...

warli art Soul of Warli Art from Maharashtra What is Warli Art? Warli art is not just an art form — it is a living expression of tribal life, philosophy, and harmony with nature. Born from the soil and stories of the Warli tribe in Maharashtra, these striking white drawings against earthen backgrounds capture the soul of rural India. Each figure, shape, and pattern is a silent poem that narrates the joy of dance, the rhythm of the seasons, and the strength of community. Where and How Did Warli Art Begin? Warli art traces its roots back thousands of years — with origins believed to date as far back as 2500 BCE . Practiced in the Palghar and Thane districts of Maharashtra, it was traditionally painted by tribal women on the mud walls of huts during festivals, harvests, weddings, and sacred rituals. These paintings weren’t for show — they were for the gods, the spirits, and the community. Warli was, and still is, a medium of cultural memory and spiritual symbolism — passed on throu...

  Tanjore Painting: A Timeless Treasure | Namma Choice Tanjore Painting: A Timeless Treasure of South India 🎨 Origin & History Tanjore painting, also spelled Thanjavur painting, is a classical South Indian art form that originated in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu , during the late 16th century. It emerged during the rule of the Nayaka dynasty , and flourished under the Marathas , especially under King Serfoji II. 📜 Historical Timeline Pre-16th Century: Roots in Chola temple murals Late 1500s: Formalized under Nayaka rule 1700s–1800s: Enhanced under Maratha kings Post-Independence: Popularized as decorative devotional art 🖌️ Artistic Features Base Material: Jackfruit or teak wood planks (Palagai Padam) Techniques: Gesso relief work + 22K gold leaf Colors: Rich red, blue, green, and gold tones Subjects: Krishna, Lakshmi, Shiva, Ganesha, saints Style: Central deity, arches, lamps, mythi...