By - Jui Deshpande
Originating from Persia, Rogan Art travelled to Kutch, Gujarat where it evolved into a unique non-brush painting tradition. The word ‘Rogan’ meaning ‘oil’ or ‘varnish’ refers to a 300–400-year-old technique that uses castor oil to create thick colours for fabric painting. In this rare process, the paint is carefully drawn onto cloth using a metal rod, without the brush ever touching the fabric. Today, it is surviving, not striving. With just one family practicing this art in India, it stands on the edge of disappearance.
The process begins with heating castor oil until it reaches a thick, honey-like texture. After cooling, it is mixed with natural colour pigment and blended till the two combine smoothly. Using a thin metal rod, the artist then draws freehand designs onto the fabric, without using a brush at any stage.The technique demands patience and control. While simpler patterns may take 5-6 days, highly intricate and detailed pieces can take months, sometimes even years to finish.
Today one family has continued the Rogan Art tradition from generation to generation in Nirona Village Kutch, and that tradition may have died out without them. The survival of this way of creating art was made possible by a great deal of dedication and an increased level of awareness generated through worldwide publicity. Rogan Art is not only an artistic medium, it is an example of incredible cultural heritage in India and demonstrates how much value there is in creating handmade products. In this day and age of fast-paced production and mass production of items, Rogan Art serves as a lasting testament to the artistic process involving patience, tradition and a human touch.
Among the many designs of Rogan Art, the most celebrated is the Tree of Life, symbolising growth, harmony, and continuity. Known for its fine detail and symmetry, it reflects the patience and precision of the craft. Once on the verge of fading, Rogan Art gained global recognition, bringing attention to this rare tradition and helping preserve it for future generations.
In a world where everyone seeks fast and quick options, Rogan Art highlights the importance of such hidden gems of the art world. It reminds us of the value of patience and tradition. It is essential to preserve and develop such art forms and pass them on to future generations. Rogan Art is not just a technique; it is an identity. It spreads culture, art, and stories, and connects people. Something deeply needed in the modern age.