Ahmedabad, Nov 17 (NationPress) As the nation celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Ekta Nagar in Gujarat has become a lively cultural hotspot with the grand festival of 'Bharat Parv 2025' at the Statue of Unity.

Jointly organized by the Government of India and the Government of Gujarat, the event showcases the rich artistic traditions of India, embodying the theme 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.'

Among the varied exhibits from across the nation, a stall from Telangana has emerged as a major highlight, featuring the vibrantly colored, narrative-rich Cheriyal paintings.

At the heart of this artistic showcase is 24-year-old artist C.H. Vanshitha, accompanied by her mother, who has spent over 15 years dedicated to the preservation of Telangana’s traditional arts. Together, they are committed to safeguarding and promoting the age-old Cheriyal scroll painting tradition.

For this young artist, her debut at Bharat Parv marks not only a significant professional achievement but also an emotional moment.

“I grew up surrounded by this art form. Each piece embodies our deities, ancestors, and the narratives of our land. My aspiration is for the world to appreciate the depth of our heritage,” she stated.

Originating from Cheriyal village, this art form is a narrative tradition that depicts Hindu mythological stories, folk tales, and rural life scenes. Traditionally painted on khadi cloth treated with a blend of tamarind seed paste, rice starch, and chalk powder, the artwork is known for its distinctive vivid red backgrounds, expressive faces, and bold outlines.

The colors used are entirely natural, sourced from minerals, flowers, and shells, applied with handmade brushes, lending the paintings a unique texture and authenticity.

Cheriyal scrolls historically served as visual aids for traveling bards and performers narrating epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata to village audiences. In recent years, the craft has evolved, finding new expressions in wall hangings, masks, panels, and home décor items.

The cultural importance of this art was formally acknowledged with the granting of a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, ensuring protection and pride for the artisans who continue to uphold this tradition.

Visitors flocked to the Telangana pavilion at 'Bharat Parv', enchanted by the vibrant hues and unfolding stories on each canvas. Many paused to listen as the artists elaborated on the mythological scenes depicted in their artwork. For some, it was their first encounter with a fading tradition; for others, a rediscovery of India’s profound artistic heritage.