An annual ritual in the famous Jagannath Temple of Puri, a beach town in the State of Orissa, has given rise to one of India's most treasured folk art form, the 'Patachitra'. The origin of the Patachitra paintings can be traced back to the 8th century AD and it is considered as one of the earliest forms of indigenous paintings. Each year, the painted wooden images of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Shubhadra in the Jagannath temple of Puri are ritually given the holy bath. This cleansing leads to the discoloration of the images. Hence, they are removed from the 'garbha griha' (the Seat in the Temple) for re-painting. During this period, the temple images are substituted with three paintings, depicting the holy trio, on specially treated clothes or 'Patas' prepared by the temple painter. Thus the name 'Patachitra' (Sanskrit: Pata = cloth, Chitra = painting). Organic colors are used in the Patachitras. The leaves of plants, flower petals, fruits (like mangooes), ground rocks contribute to the production of a variety of shades and hues.

The predominant gem like colors that are used are vermilion red, brick red, yellow, blue from indigo, green from green leaves, white from conch shell and black from lamp black. Once, the colors are extracted they are combined with gum resin and then used in painting. The brilliant play of these colors produce stunning effects on the cloth. The brushes used to apply the paint are prepared from plant fibers or animal hair.Originating as a ritual, the Patachitra is regarded today as one of the most cherished collectors' items. Although several centuries old, Patachitra continues to be a living art form practiced even today.