Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: An Assistant Professor from Manipur University is dedicated to preserving the ancient painting style used in Puyas (archaic Manipuri manuscripts), specifically the Subika paintings, which are on the verge of extinction.
About Subika Paintings:
- The Subika painting style is deeply connected to the Meitei community’s cultural history through its six surviving manuscripts – Subika, Subika Achouba, Subika Laishaba, Subika Choudit, Subika Cheithil and Thengrakhel Subika.
- The paintings are a composition of cultural motifs created by pre-existing features and other influences. However, the Subika painting style is nearly extinct due to neglect.
- The Subika Laishaba is a composition of cultural motifs influenced by the cultural worldviews of the community.
- Its illustrations incorporate visual elements like lines, shapes, forms, colours, and patterns.
- These visual images serve as cultural motifs, creating visual effects and expressing cultural significance.
- The paintings are done on handmade paper, and the materials for manuscripts, such as handmade paper or tree bark, are prepared locally.
