From the Land of the Rajas:

Creativity in Rajasthan

Telling stories through the use of a series of linked paintings is common in Indian popular religion.  Rajasthan has two important forms:  the story-teller’s painted box (kavad) and the large scroll painting (par) that accompanies a recitation of the epic of Pabuji, a semi-divine hero.  As both of their story-tellers act as priests, these narrative objects serve as portable shrines.  After setting them up, the priests offer prayers that consecrate the immediate space and transform the audience into a religious congregation.

Carpenter making a kavad
Photo by Renaldo Maduro, 1969–70