The collection

Kalighat Painting Shirts and Kurtas

Kalighat painting began in 19th-century Calcutta. Our Kalighat shirts and kurtas carry its bold outlines and flat colour, printed on Giza cotton and cotton satin.

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About Kalighat painting

Kalighat painting began in the 19th century around the Kalighat Kali temple in Calcutta, now Kolkata. Patuas, scroll painters from rural Bengal, settled near the temple and painted quick watercolours on paper for pilgrims to take home. They painted gods and goddesses at first, and later everyday city life, often with humour.

The style is known for bold, sweeping outlines, flat areas of colour and soft shading along the edge of each figure. Our Kalighat shirts and kurtas borrow that line and colour. The artwork is illustrated by hand and printed on Giza cotton or cotton satin, and every piece is made to order in sizes S to XXL or in a Custom size.

Questions about Kalighat art clothing

What is Kalighat painting?

Kalighat painting is a style of watercolour painting on paper that began near the Kalighat Kali temple in Calcutta in the 19th century. It is known for bold outlines, flat colour and scenes of gods, goddesses and city life.

What designs are in the Kalighat collection?

The collection includes the Kalighat Graffiti, Kalighat Fire, Kalighat Ensemble and Kalighat Prosperity designs, made as shirts and kurtas for men and women.

Which fabrics are used?

The shirts are Giza cotton and the kurtas are cotton satin. Each product page names its fabric.

How long does delivery take?

Every piece is made to order and ships in about 10 to 12 days. Shipping within India is free. International orders take 20 to 24 days to arrive, and their shipping is charged at actual cost.