The Buddhist monastic settlement in Bamiyan, Afghanistan, was not only a spiritual retreat for the Buddhist Sangha but also a hub of creativity. Archaeologists discovered traces of resins, plant oils, and ochres there, showing that monks were experimenting with wall paintings, textiles, and other materials. Because of this innovation, many believe Bamiyan and India was the birthplace of some of the earliest oil paints. Over time, these techniques spread across tribal communities and influenced local traditions, laying the foundation for what we now know as Rogan art in the Kutch region, one of the most unique forms of traditional Indian oil painting.
Rogan Art in Kutch: A Living Heritage
Centuries later, echoes of those early techniques survive in Rogan painting, a rare practice still carried on in Madhapar, Bhuj, Kutch. The word Rogan comes from the Sanskrit rangan, meaning “to add colour” or “to dye.” In the context of Kutch, Rogan painting is considered one of the earliest oil-based art forms, closely tied to the flourishing trade along the Silk Roads.
Originally, Rogan painting spread among the Kshatriya communities of the Hindu Kush and was later embraced by Hindu families who perfected its freehand style. Eventually, it travelled east to Gujarat, where the Kansara family of Madhapar has been creating handmade Rogan art for nearly 110 years.
Traditional Indian Oil Painting
For generations, the Kansara family has worked tirelessly to preserve Rogan art. Today, Ashish Kansara continues this heritage in Kutch, where Rogan art Kutch thrives. His devotion to the craft has given new recognition to this nearly forgotten art form. Thus, the survival of Rogan painting demonstrates not only the resilience of Kutch art but also the timeless value of traditional Indian oil painting.
The Origins of Oil Painting
Although oil painting is often linked to the European Renaissance, its origins lie in Asia. The oldest examples, dating back to the 6th century CE, come from the Buddhist cave paintings of Bamiyan, Afghanistan. These artists used natural pigments mixed with oils and resins to create stunning works of art. Because the technique developed during the height of Silk Road trade, it eventually reached Europe, shaping later artistic traditions.
Asian oil-based art, however, developed with a different focus. While European paintings emphasized realism, emotions, and light, Asian works carried spiritual qualities, depth, and movement. For centuries, this hidden tradition of oil painting remained overshadowed by Western narratives.
Rogan Art: A Unique Kutch Art Tradition
Rogan art embodies this hidden history and remains one of the most distinctive traditional Indian paintings. Rooted in the cultural richness of Kutch, it evolved as both a decorative textile practice and a meditative art form.
There are three main techniques within Rogan art:
- Freehand Rogan Painting: Practiced by the Kshatriya community, Preserved by families like the Kansara Family, this delicate technique uses a stylus-like tool to draw freehand motifs on fabric.
- Nirmika Printing: Practiced by the Kshatriya community, who used thickened oils for block printing bold geometric designs.
- Varnika Printing: Practiced by the Kshatriya community, Preserved by families like the Kansara Family.
Designs often depict peacocks, the Tree of Life, and religious symbols.
Because the Kshatriya community mastered the preparation of plant-based oils, their contribution was crucial to sustaining Rogan painting in Kutch.
The Alchemy Behind Rogan Art
The making of Rogan paint is as fascinating as the art itself. To prepare it, castor oil is carefully heated for hours until it thickens into a resin-like texture. Ashish Kansara, like his ancestors, still performs this process by hand, ensuring the right balance. Once ready, pigments are added—traditionally ochres in shades of orange, yellow, white, green and blue.
This thickened oil allows Rogan artists to create extremely fine lines and intricate designs that resist bleeding on fabric. Unlike many other forms of art, Rogan painting combines artistry with alchemy, making it one of the most technically demanding traditional Indian paintings.
Rogan Art in the Modern World
Despite its long history, Rogan painting nearly disappeared in the late 20th century when machine-made textiles replaced hand-painted fabrics. However, thanks to the persistence of the Kansara family, it survived. Today, only Ashish Kansara continues the freehand Rogan tradition in Kutch, an area renowned for Rogan art Kutch. His workshop in Madhapar attracts art lovers from around the world, ensuring that this craft is no longer hidden.
Modern exhibitions, workshops, and international recognition have helped Rogan art reach new audiences. Its delicate motifs and meditative qualities are now celebrated as a rare jewel in the crown of Kutch art and traditional Indian oil painting. Ashish Kansara is GI Tag India authorised user of Rogan Art.
The Symbolism of Rogan Art
At the heart of Rogan painting lie powerful symbols that reflect India’s cultural and spiritual heritage:
- Tree of Life: Represents interconnectedness, growth, and eternal cycles.
- Peacock: Symbolizes beauty, royalty, and joy, a common theme in traditional Indian paintings.
- Dragon: Drawn from Eastern traditions, it represents power and enlightenment.
- Geometric Patterns: Express harmony and divine creation, historically tied to prosperity among Kshatriya communities.
These motifs, especially when combined with vibrant oranges, whites, and yellows, make Rogan kala more than decoration—it becomes a living expression of Kutch culture.
Why Rogan Art Matters Today
Rogan art is more than just a textile craft; it is a link to India’s ancient history, the Silk Road, and centuries of cultural exchange. Its survival in Kutch reminds us that traditions can endure even in the face of modernization. For collectors, cultural historians, and art enthusiasts, Rogan art offers a chance to experience an authentic, rare, and deeply meaningful form of traditional Indian painting.
At craftcentres.com and roganart.com, we honour this legacy by celebrating the artisans of Kutch and their dedication to preserving Rogan art. By supporting these creators, we not only protect a rare craft but also keep alive one of the world’s most fascinating artistic traditions.
Pingback: Bhujodi Saree: The Handwoven Art of Kutch
Pingback: Rogan Painting — The Ancient Technique Behind Early Oil Art | Nirona