Cat & Fish V- Kalighat Pattachitra

The satirical depiction of the cat with prawns in its mouth in Kalighat Pattachitra serves as a sharp commentary on the evolving tastes of the so-called elite Bengalis. Traditionally, both Bengalis and cats have been synonymous with their love for fish. However, the preference for prawns over fish—which is often associated with European influence and elitism—becomes a subtle critique in these paintings.

The Kalighat artists, known for their wit and observational humor, used the cat as a metaphor for the Bengali bhadralok (gentlefolk), showcasing how they embraced Westernized preferences while maintaining a façade of tradition. Through this sarcastic visual, the artists mock the irony of the Bengali elite, who, despite their deep-rooted love for fish, gradually shifted towards a more colonial-influenced palate.

Craft: Bengal Pattachitra by the Patuas (State of West Bengal)

Artist-  Nobir Chitrakar