Unfurling Ancient Tales: Priyanka Prajapati's Cheriyal Art Illuminates Bharat Parv

Imagine, if you will, stepping onto the vibrant lawns of the Red Fort in Delhi. It's Bharat Parv 2025, and amidst a kaleidoscope of India's rich cultural tapestry, something truly special is unfolding. Literally. A young artist, Priyanka Prajapati, stands before canvases that aren't quite canvases in the typical sense – they are intricate, breathtaking Cheriyal scroll paintings, each one a universe of storytelling waiting to be discovered.

This isn't just art; it's history, a whispered tradition that's been passed down for some four hundred years, if you can believe it. Hailing from Telangana, the Cheriyal tradition is unique, truly, in how it merges visual artistry with oral narration. Think about it: these aren't static images, but rather dynamic visual aids. Traditionally, bards from the Kaki Padagollu community would unfurl these scrolls, panel by colourful panel, narrating epic stories – myths, legends, folklore – to villagers gathered around, captivated by every brushstroke and every spoken word. It's an entire performance, a living, breathing library.

Priyanka, in truth, is a torchbearer. She's not just a painter; she's a custodian of this incredible legacy. Having honed her craft under the watchful eye of her father, the renowned Vaikuntam Prajapati – himself a master of this time-honoured art – she carries generations of artistic wisdom in her hands. And now, she's bringing that very wisdom, that very magic, to the heart of the capital, allowing countless visitors to witness it firsthand.

At Bharat Parv, you'll find her, brushes in hand, offering live demonstrations. It’s more than just a display, you see. It’s an interaction, a chance for people to not only marvel at the finished works but to peek behind the curtain, to understand the dedication, the intricate detail, and the profound cultural significance embedded in each vibrant pigment and delicate line. Her work, quite simply, is a bridge – connecting the bustling, modern present with a glorious, narrative-rich past.

In a world that sometimes rushes past its own heritage, artists like Priyanka Prajapati are invaluable. They remind us of the power of story, the beauty of tradition, and the sheer human effort required to keep such treasures alive. So, if you find yourself at Bharat Parv this year, do seek out her stall. For once, step away from the fleeting and immerse yourself in a narrative that has spanned centuries – a story unfurled, piece by vibrant piece, right before your very eyes.