Cheriyal Art
Cheriyal Masks
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Handcrafted using sawdust, tamarind seed paste, cotton fabric, and natural colours, this Cheriyal mask is a beautiful example of sustainable artistry. Lightweight, eco-friendly, and free from plastic, it is created through a meticulous process that has been practiced for generations. Once used by travelling storytellers to narrate tales of gods, heroes, and folklore, these masks continue to preserve the rich cultural traditions of Telangana.
Cheriyal Art
More than 400 years ago, stories travelled not through screens or books, but through the vibrant scrolls of Cheriyal. Originating in Telangana, this remarkable folk art was used by travelling storytellers to narrate epics, folklore, and everyday tales to village communities. Instantly recognizable for its vivid colours, striking red backgrounds, and expressive characters, Cheriyal transformed storytelling into a visual experience. Recognized today with a GI tag, it remains one of India's few surviving narrative art traditions—a living reminder of a time when art was the voice of a community.
Artist
Rakesh
Born into a family of traditional Cheriyal artists, Rakesh Dhanalakota has spent nearly two decades preserving and reimagining one of Telangana's most distinctive art forms. Trained under the guidance of his father, National Award recipient D. Vaikuntam, he is known for his intricate storytelling and dedication to keeping the craft relevant for future generations. His contributions to folk art have earned him the Telangana State Award, the prestigious Kalamani Award at Surajkund Mela, and the Best Artisan Award from the Andhra Pradesh Government. Through exhibitions, workshops, and his art, Rakesh continues to share the rich cultural heritage of Cheriyal with audiences in India and around the world.
"I want Cheriyal to live beyond museums and galleries,
finding a place in everyday lives. Every piece I create
is a step towards keeping this beautiful tradition alive."