Mahalasa college of visual art Conducting GANJIFA Traditional Art Camp From 1st January, 2019 to 12th January,2019.
This workshop Guidance by MOHAN KUMAR B.P. Lecturer, Mahalasa College of Visual art.
Ganjifa art is a term commonly used for hand-made and hand-painted traditional playing cards prevalent in India since medieval times. Ganjifa art, an art form came to India from Persia. The art and games of these cards gained popularity in India during the 16th century and especially under the rule of Mughal emperor Akbar.
Ganjifa cards are of historical importance besides holding aesthetic and artistic value. They serve a social purpose by bringing people together, providing entertainment and by popularising socio-cultural themes. Ganjifa cards are also used as souvenirs.
This unique fine art form, Ganjifa art intermingles the delicate art of painting and craft. At the same time, as a game, it grew in popularity during the 18th and 19th centuries among a cross-section of people. It was quite common to find people playing a game of Ganjifa in temple court-yards, homes, market places and within the precincts of the royal court. Ganjifa art served as a form of entertainment and created an atmosphere of devotion, as the players chanted the names of their favourite deities while dealing the cards.