Aipan: The Art of Uttrakhand

 The Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is home to the ritualistic folk art known as Aipan. The word Aipan is derived from the Sanskrit word Lepna, meaning plaster. The Kumaoni Aipan art is mostly drawn on joyous events, festivals, and even funeral rites. It is also believed that this folk art of Uttarakhand has the power to ward against evil. Earlier, the art form could be seen on the walls and floors of homes, but today it is found in various items of apparel or home decor pieces.

History 

Aipan folk art flourished during the rule of the Chand dynasty. It is believed that the traditional Aipan art was first practised in the Kumaon region and then, later on, moved to other areas of the region, as the communities and individuals who practised the craft moved. In the past, traces of traditional Aipan art may be seen on the walls and floors of homes. Throughout time, it has also started to appear on several household items and garments.

Aipan art involves the creation of various geometric and figurative designs inspired by gods, goddesses, and natural elements on surfaces such as walls, papers, and cloth.The patterns typically feature flowers, geometric patterns, conch shells, the swastika, goddess footsteps, and god and goddess images. Traditionally, it utilizes two primary raw materials: "Bisvar," a white paste made by grinding cooked rice in water, and red ochre, traditionally known as "Geru" or lal mitti. However, in modern times, many individuals opt for red-and-white synthetic enamel or acrylic paints.

Aipan art is unique in that it always begins and ends with a dot. The dot at the beginning stands for the centre of the universe and is positioned in the centre. All of the other lines and patterns radiate out from the centre, demonstrating how the environment is changing.