RAS question
Phad painting scrolls are traditionally created by artists of which family/community from Shahpura (Bhilwara)?
Correct answer: (B) Joshi family (Chhipa community).
Phad painting scrolls are traditionally associated with the Joshi family of Shahpura in Bhilwara, artists from the Chhipa community.
Explanation
Phad is a Rajasthan scroll-painting tradition associated with Shahpura in Bhilwara. Impart Encyclopedia of Art says the form is believed to have originated in Shahpura and was historically practised by members of the Chhipa caste. The traditional custodians are the Joshi family of Shahpura: Shree Lal Joshi and his son Prakash Joshi are cited as recognised Phad artists. The scrolls are not just decorative paintings; they carry stories of local folk heroes and deities. In performance, Bhopa priests narrate those stories from the painted scroll, while the artisan lineage responsible for creating the Phad is the Joshi family within the Chhipa tradition.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Manganiyar is not the artisan family or community associated with Phad painting; the tradition points to Joshi artists from the Chhipa community.
- (C) Soni family is not linked to Phad painting; the association is with the Joshi family of Shahpura and the Chhipa community.
- (D) Bhat family is not the creator lineage named for Phad scrolls; Bhopa priests are narrators, while Joshi artists make the paintings.
Concept
This tests Rajasthan folk art as a linked triad of place, artisan community and performance practice. RAS repeats such questions because local art forms are often asked through their producing communities and ritual use, not only their visual features.