Departing from the traditional vertical format of the scrolls done in its day, this painting, done in a horizontal style, depicts Kumbhakarna on the battlefield. The whole composition is chaotic and captures the commotion of the battle. Rama and Lakshmana, perched on Hanuman’s shoulders, shoot arrows at Kumbhakarna. Mythological scenes from the Epics and the Puranas (ancient histories) and caste origin myths were traditionally illustrated on these cotton scroll paintings. All India Handlooms and Handicrafts Board discovered this art form only some decades ago. Only one family of painters now practices this form – the family of Nakashi Venkatramaiah.
