‘Ganjifa’- the word caught my fancy the moment I heard it during one of the Catterfly sessions that I was attending. It sounded exotic, mysterious, and of course I had never heard of it before. I know Google Baba would have been only too happy to oblige. But I desisted from the urge to tap my way to enlightenment. Instead, I thought, I would let the mystery unravel the arty way. I signed up for the session immediately.
As, always, it proved to be the perfect way to initiate yet another magical sojourn. I learnt that Ganjifa cards were the precursor to the modern day pack of cards. It has a history that goes back thousands of years. It was a popular means of recreation that is said to have taken on various forms over the years and has even found mention in our tales of folklore. As I listened to interesting anecdotes related to it’s colourful history, it brought to my mind vivid images from the Mahabharata - Of the ill fated game of Chausar, that caused the veritable undoing of the mighty Pandavs, at the cunning and evil hands of Shakuni.
The modern day version of Ganjifa cards is said to consist of 4 sets of 12 cards each, every set being a different coIour. I was struck by the beauty and skill with which these cards were decorated. The embellishment was exquisite. Delicate strokes of the brush created intricate patterns and incorporated fascinating motifs like the Dashavtaar, the Navgunjar, Arrows from quiver of Lord Rama and so many others.
And now comes the most incredible part – All of this was made to fit into circular cutouts no more 3 inches in diameter. Yes, because each Ganjifa card ias a circular disc that measures just 3 inches. Now isn’t that enough to bowl one over completely.
We made 1 set of 12 cards in the session and it turned out to be a totally unforgettable experience. Of course, Bhaskar Ji’s mastery, coupled with his pleasant and benign mannerism made it even more delightful.
I tried my hand at Ganjifa Art too, after the session, and this is what I came up with. Do take a look.
