Central Characters in Different Indian Artforms

Ever noticed how every great story has a face that stays with you, someone who adds more than just their presence and stands out for their characterisation? Be it motifs from nature and folklore to gods and goddesses like the witty Krishna, valiant Rama, loyal Garuda, or the fierce Draupadi; Indian artforms have always had a way of putting characters at the heart of their storytelling. From paintings and sculptures to dance and theatre, these characters aren’t just visual elements or storytelling tools, they’re potent symbols, stories, and souls blended into one.

Let’s explore how some of India’s most iconic traditional artforms revolve around central motifs and mythological figures that linger in our memory, even today. For every Indian Artform, Rooftop helps you venture into experiencing the art form firsthand, with an array of courses, books and original Indian artworks by master artists on the artform.

Mata ni Pachedi, literally meaning “behind the mother goddess,” is a sacred textile art from Gujarat created by the Vaghari community. The central character here is almost always a fierce devi such as Kali, Durga, or a local village goddess; depicted front and centre, surrounded by devotees, animals, and mythic scenes. These cloth paintings are often used as mobile temples by those denied entry into mainstream shrines. The goddess isn’t just painted, she’s immensely revered. Every element of the design from her weapons, her posture, to her aura reflects her supreme role in protecting and guiding the community.

The ‘Artventures of Mata ni Pachedi' - book on Rooftop details the intricate patterns and motifs of this artform, which guided steps to help readers immerse themselves in this creative art form at their own pace! The art book in 3 different grades of skill can help beginners learn art as well as artists brush up their skills.

Originating in 19th-century Bengal, Kalighat Paintings were initially sold as souvenirs near the Kalighat temple in Kolkata. They often feature gods like Kali, Shiva, and Krishna, but with a twist — these characters were given human flaws and emotions. What’s unique is how Kalighat art brought central figures down from the heavens and placed them in relatable settings. Gods scold, sulk, and smile. Through bold brushwork and witty themes, these paintings showed that even divine characters have a bit of us in them.

Learn the expressive art of Kalighat painting in Rooftop’s beginner-friendly course led by master artist Anwar Chitrakar. Discover the vibrant techniques of sketching, colour selection, and creating dramatic expressions, all while gaining insight into the artist’s journey and the rich heritage of this traditional Indian folk style.

In Bhil painting, the central characters are often not people, but elements of nature. Created by one of India’s oldest tribal communities, Bhil art celebrates trees, animals, and spirits through symbolic dot patterns and earthy hues. The deer, peacock, or sacred trees often become the story’s anchor, sometimes even representing ancestors or deities. There’s no rigid narrative here; instead, the visuals flow like folklore passed down generations. These characters reflect the Bhil worldview one where nature isn't the background, but the protagonist. Bhil art is also created around tales of gods, goddesses, tribal life and mythology.

Join Bhil master artist Lado Bai in Rooftop’s immersive Bhil painting course that offers a rare glimpse into the soulful world of Bhil art. Curated for both beginners and seasoned artists, the course covers traditional dot-painting techniques, symbolic storytelling, and nature-inspired motifs. Alongside hands-on guidance, you'll also explore the artist’s journey and gain a deeper appreciation for one of India’s most culturally rich tribal artforms.

Cheriyal scroll painting from Telangana is a vibrant storytelling tradition where each scroll unfolds like a comic strip. Central characters are drawn from folk epics and ballads and village deities like Kattamaisamma or local legends like Bhakta Markandeya. These figures dominate the scrolls, shown larger than life with bold expressions and distinctive colours. What makes Cheriyal unique is its focus on regional heroes rather than pan-Indian gods. The art form isn’t just visual, it’s meant to be sung and narrated, making these characters come alive in both image and voice.

The ‘Artventures of Cheriyal – Essentials’ book by Rooftop invites you to dive into the colorful world of traditional Cheriyal scroll painting, rooted in the legacy of the Dhanalakota family from Telangana. This beginner-friendly book unpacks the origins, materials, and techniques of this heritage art form; covering natural dyes, cloth-based painting methods, and iconic motifs like birds, trees, and mythological scenes. From village life to tales of Ramayana and Krishna, you'll explore captivating themes and learn to recreate intricate borders and storytelling visuals, while adding your own creative flair to this age-old tradition.

Speaking of Kerala, each of the temple walls there have a story of their own. Kerala Mural Paintings are grand, colourful frescoes that largely depict Hindu deities in larger-than-life avatars. Central to this style are mythological moments such as Krishna playing the flute, Shiva in tandav, or Rama in battle. With their expressive eyes and rich symbolism, these paintings aren’t just religious art; they’re meditative, spiritual, and timeless. The characters here aren’t just figures, they are divine energies made visual.

Discover the timeless beauty of Kerala Mural art in this exclusive course led by acclaimed muralist P.K. Sadanandan, who is renowned for both preserving and reimagining the mural style. In this rooftop course, you’ll learn the philosophy, techniques, and discipline behind these intricate frescoes. Ideal for art lovers and beginners alike, this course offers a hands-on journey into one of India’s most revered visual traditions.

Phad is less of a painting and more of a journey. These long scrolls from Rajasthan narrate entire stories of folk heroes like Pabuji and Devnarayan. These central figures are celebrated not as gods, but as protectors of the people. What makes Phad unique is that it’s a mobile performance wherein the scroll is shown by a singer (Bhopa), and the character comes alive with music and verse. Think of it as a seamless blend of painting and theatrical performance, with one strong central character holding it all together.

The ‘Artventures of Phad – Essentials’ is the perfect guide for anyone looking to explore the captivating world of Phad painting. Blending tradition with creativity, the book introduces you to the origins of Phad art, its earthy colour palette, and the storytelling legacy of the Joshi community. With step-by-step guides, you’ll learn to recreate classic themes like Dashavatara and Raas, practice iconic motifs such as instruments, animals, and trees, and master traditional borders and patterns in this art book by Rooftop.

So the next time you come across a painting, look for which characters stay with you and remind you of the art form at large. Think of them as not just striking characters in a story, but characters that hold the story together.