Answer: Phads are created and painted by bhopas.
The phads are not painted by bhopas but by a caste called 'Joshis,' who were court artists.
Illustrating the valorous tales of the bhomias (cattle heroes), the phads, are carried by bhopas, the itinerant bards, who travel the territory, displaying them while narrating tales and singing devotional songs associated with these hero-deities in night-long storytelling performances. A lamp is held against the phad to illuminate images that are being spoken about. The bhopa and his companion perform to the accompaniment of musical instruments, such as ravanahattha and veena, and employ the Khyal style of singing. Through the phads and phad banchan, the community remembers the hero as a martyr and keeps his story alive. Phads, however, are not painted by the bhopas. They have traditionally been painted by a caste called ‘Joshis’ who have been painters in the courts of the kings of Rajasthan. These painters specialised in court patronised miniature paintings. Hence, the association of skilled practitioners, bard musicians and court artists place phads higher than other similar cultural traditions. |
