Throughout the world there has always been a strong connection between art and religion, so it is not astonishing that in the Indian sub-continent, where textiles have such a rich history, Hindu temple cloths reflect the best of generations of dedicated artisans’ hand work and reverential artistry.
Temple hangings, scrolls, canopies over deities, chariot banners, etc. were often decorated in the Sriklahasti style of kalamkari, with its iconographic, mythological, naturalistic themes and through the meditative process of its hand-drawn designs. Together with the Machilipatnam style of kalamkari, it has inspired an international love of the floral patterned cottons and those specific designs that lie behind the endearing use of chintz and bordered panels in fashion and interiors.
See also Pattachitra, Palampore, Tree Of Life.