The rich cultural heritage and traditional folk art of Uttarakhand, known as Aipan, has successfully transcended the boundaries of household doorframes and courtyards to earn global acclaim. Playing a pivotal role in establishing an international identity for this captivating Himalayan art form is Pooja Padiyar, a dedicated Aipan artist hailing from Bhimtal in the Nainital district. Through nearly eight years of relentless practice and artistic devotion, Pooja has modernized this traditional craft, turning it into a thriving commercial enterprise. Today, her intricately crafted Aipan designs, art pieces, and decorative products reach art lovers across various Indian states as well as international destinations.
In addition to creating conventional Aipan handicrafts, Pooja Padiyar is actively preserving Uttarakhand's folk culture and religious traditions through large-scale wall paintings. At present, she is bringing the divine forms of Maa Nanda and Maa Sunanda, the patron deities of the Kumaon region, to life on public walls using her fine artistic skills. Crafted with traditional mineral colors, authentic Himalayan motifs, and intricate Aipan patterns, these striking wall murals are capturing the admiration of locals and visiting tourists alike.
A Creative Journey Rooted in Class 6
Reflecting on the beginnings of her artistic journey, Pooja Padiyar shares that her passion for Aipan art first took root when she was studying in Class 6. During her early school years, she began learning the nuances and spiritual significance of the craft from family elders and local cultural traditions. As time progressed, her dedication deepened, and by the time she reached Class 12, she actively participated in regional and inter-school Aipan art competitions.
During these competitive events, Pooja made a critical observation that reshaped her vision. She noticed that prominent art forms like Bihar's Madhubani painting and other state folk arts received widespread recognition and institutional patronage at national exhibitions. In contrast, the deeply historic Aipan art of Uttarakhand remained relatively unrecognized on the broader national stage. This realization sparked a strong determination within her to elevate her home state's heritage. She decided to pursue Aipan art with seriousness, resolving to turn it into both a national symbol of identity and a viable source of livelihood.
Transforming Traditional Craft Into a Profession Over 8 Years
Over the past eight years, Pooja Padiyar has developed Aipan from a traditional domestic custom into a structured profession and business model. Her handcrafted Aipan creations are now dispatched across India and shipped overseas to members of the Indian diaspora and global art collectors. This commercial success not only provides her with a dignified income but also offers a continuous platform to present Kumaoni culture and spiritual traditions to a global audience.
Pooja points out that public interest in Aipan has surged dramatically in recent years. Competitions and workshops are now organized almost every week in different parts of the region, inspiring young people to reconnect with their roots. Furthermore, she highlights that several educated youths are choosing to leave conventional corporate jobs to work full-time in the Aipan sector, establishing independent art startups and creative enterprises.
Prominent Murals for G20, Governor House, and Sacred Shrines
Beyond portable handicrafts and canvas designs, Pooja Padiyar has executed major mural projects across prominent temples, heritage sites, and official buildings in Uttarakhand. Her artistic competence earned her opportunities to showcase Aipan art during G20 conference initiatives held under India's presidency. Additionally, she has painted official wall murals for various government and non-governmental projects, including artistic work at the Governor House in Uttarakhand.
In light of the grand Maa Nanda-Sunanda festival, Pooja has launched a fresh series of wall murals dedicated to the deities. Having initiated the project in Bhowali, she is currently painting elaborate murals of Maa Nanda and Maa Sunanda in Nainital. Through these sacred paintings, she seeks to celebrate deep-rooted religious faith while highlighting Kumaon's distinct cultural identity to visiting travelers from around the world.
