The Pattachitra artists are called ‘Chitrakaars’ (Painters). These Chitrakaar families also paint in the temples, the chariots and numerous pata paintings for commercial purposes such as wall hangings and ganjappa playing cards. This tradition is inherited in the form of a family sketch book, handed down over generations and cherished as a precious sacred possession. Earlier identified as a man’s domain, today even women play an active part in upholding this rare heritage. The following pictures show the female trainees engaged in making pattachitra painting.