Pattachitra is a living art having its roots to the ancient period of Mohenjo-Daro Civilization. The Word Pata comes from the Sanskrit word Patta meaning “A Piece of Cloth” and Chitra meaning painting. Orissa Pattachitra flourished with the construction of the famous Jagannath Temple at Puri in 12th century. The Cult of Jagannath used patta painting to spread faith throughout Orissa.

Pattachitra is an ancient art form that originated in Odisha, with its roots tied to religious practices and temple culture, particularly the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The tradition dates back to the 5th century BCE and was initially used to create visual narratives of Hindu mythology for devotees. These paintings, done on cloth, palm leaves, or walls, are characterized by their intricate detailing, vibrant natural colors, and storytelling themes centered around epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the lives of Lord Krishna and Lord Jagannath.