The Pahari Schools of Painting: A Class 12 NCERT Fine Art Guide

Origins and Geographic Spread of the Pahari Schools of Painting

The term Pahari literally means 'of the hills' and refers to the painting traditions that developed in the western Himalayas from the 17th to 19th centuries. These schools flourished in hill towns such as Basohli, Guler, Kangra, Kullu, Chamba, and others.

Each region contributed uniquely to the Pahari style, influenced by local culture, geography, and royal patronage. The mountainous landscape inspired artists to incorporate natural elements extensively, making nature a central theme in their works.

Unlike other Indian painting traditions, Pahari paintings are not sharply divided by territory because political boundaries were fluid. Instead, artistic families often worked across regions, blending styles and techniques.

Distinctive Styles: From Basohli to Kangra

The evolution of the Pahari Schools of Painting can be broadly divided into three phases:

• Basohli Style (Early phase): Known for its bold, vigorous lines, bright colours, and dramatic compositions. Faces are often stylised with sharp features and strong expressions.
• Guler or Pre-Kangra Phase: This transitional style introduced softer colours and more naturalistic forms, influenced by Mughal art.
• Kangra Style (Mature phase): The most refined and lyrical, Kangra paintings feature delicate brushwork, graceful figures, and romantic themes, especially scenes from Radha-Krishna lore.

This progression highlights the gradual shift from boldness to subtlety and naturalism.

Influences and Artistic Lineages in Pahari Painting

The Pahari Schools were influenced by both Mughal and Rajasthani painting traditions. Mughal art contributed naturalism and refined compositions, while Rajasthani art added vibrant colours and bold lines.

However, the most important factor in Pahari painting development was the role of artist families, especially the family led by Pandit Seu (Shiv). These families passed down techniques and styles, adapting and innovating over generations.

Scholars like B. N. Goswamy argue that identifying Pahari paintings by region alone is misleading. Instead, the continuity and evolution within artist families better explain stylistic changes. This explains why overlapping styles are common across nearby hill states.

Themes and Subjects in Pahari Paintings

Pahari paintings frequently depict themes drawn from:

• Religious texts: Stories from the Bhagavata Purana, especially Radha and Krishna’s love episodes.
• Royal life: Daily routines, ceremonies, and important occasions of hill rulers.
• Nature: Detailed flora, fauna, and landscapes reflecting the Himalayan environment.

Artists used nature symbolically to enhance mood and emotion. For example, blooming flowers often signify love or devotion.

The compositions often use relative points of view and decorated margins, creating a poetic and immersive visual experience.

Comparison of Major Pahari Schools of Painting

Here is a comparison table summarising the major Pahari schools:

This table helps Class 12 students understand stylistic differences for exams.

Worked Example: Illustrating a Scene from Radha-Krishna Lore in Kangra Style

Let’s consider illustrating a scene from Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda using the Kangra style:

• Step 1: Choose a romantic episode, e.g., Krishna stealing butter or Radha’s longing.
• Step 2: Sketch delicate, expressive figures with soft facial features.
• Step 3: Paint naturalistic backgrounds with lush trees, flowers, and flowing rivers.
• Step 4: Use soft pastel colours and fine brush strokes to create a lyrical mood.

This approach captures the essence of Kangra painting — blending emotion, nature, and poetry.

Formula for colour harmony:

• Use analogous colours (adjacent on the colour wheel) like greens and blues for nature
• Highlight figures with complementary colours like red or yellow for contrast

This method ensures visual balance and emotional impact.