What are kantha embroidery and pattachitra painting?

In the context of West Bengal, kantha and pattachitra are celebrated traditional crafts that reflect the state's rich cultural heritage.

• Kantha: This is a traditional embroidery technique practiced in West Bengal. It typically involves stitching together layers of old cloth—often discarded saris—using a simple running stitch to create intricate patterns, motifs, and narrative designs.1
• Pattachitra: This is a traditional form of scroll painting. Historically, these paintings were used by itinerant storytellers to illustrate mythological tales and folk legends. The art form is characterized by its detailed imagery and vibrant use of color, often executed on cloth or paper scrolls.1

These crafts are part of the state's extensive tradition of cottage industries, which also includes handloom weaving of silk and cotton fabrics, as well as the production of items made from cane, bamboo, and terracotta.1