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Deevara Chittara: the Artform, the People, their Culture

The coffee table book is the first of its kind documenting Karnataka’s relatively unknown folk art Chittara and the culture of the Deevaru community, refined practitioners of this art.

Deevara Chittara book cover with text and decorated bowls on red background

(Presented by CFRIA)

Upcoming Events

22-25 January '26

Kerala Literature Festival

22-25 Jan: Chittara workshop and sale of products. 23 Jan: Panel discussion on the book (2-3 PM)

6-7 February '26

Janapada Loka

More details coming soon...

I have seen the book - and I think it is simply wonderful. It is very high quality work. Congratulations.

- P. Sainath

Eminent Indian journalist & Founder Editor, People's Archive of Rural India

In the Press

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4 September 2025

The Hindu

Centre for Revival of Indigenous Art’s coffee table book documents Chittara art from Karnataka’s Malenadu

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27 July 2025

Prajavani

Language of Lines' ಕಲಾ ಪ್ರದರ್ಶನ: 'ಚಿತ್ತಾರ'ದಲ್ಲಿ ಅರಳಿದ ದೀವರ ಸಂಸ್ಕೃತಿ

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7 September 2025

Deccan Herald

Walls that sing, art that speaks: Preserving India's rich cultural heritage

Events Gallery

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Testimonials

"Fabulous work, CFRIA! To showcase this beautiful indigenous art form to the world is a great service. This documentation ensures respect for the Deevaru community’s role in preserving nature. We need more people like Geetha Bhat whose selfless work brings these indigenous art forms to the public."

- Pavithra Muddaya

Textile Revivalist & Chief Curator - Vimor Museum of Living Textiles

"The book is a testament to a community's culture, art and stories representing their deep reverence and connection with nature. Rather than seeking patronage, it celebrates the community's inherent talents and traditions. From tattoos that tell stories to the sacred significance of water in their daily lives, the book possesses encyclopedic knowledge about the community.
The culmination of two decades of dedication, this book is a heartfelt tribute to the resilient spirit of Chittara and a joyous celebration of Deevara's cultural identity."

- Ms. Abiraami

"What a fantastic team! Your book should win an award, it’s amazing as I browse!
It’s like a journey into a dream world…"

- Mr. Aslam Sait

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