Mon Apr 14 14:29:59 UTC 2025: ## Local Artist’s Death Leaves Legacy of Tribal Art in the Nilgiris

**UDHAGAMANDALAM, April 14, 2025** – The passing of R. Krishnan, a self-taught artist known as “Kitna,” has left a void in the Alu Kurumba community of Vellarikombai near Kotagiri in the Nilgiris. For nearly three decades, Krishnan single-handedly popularized the community’s unique art style, inspired by over 3,000-year-old rock art in his village. His death, on March 20th, has shocked the community, but his legacy ensures the preservation of their disappearing cultural heritage.

Krishnan, who had only a Class 6 education, created thousands of paintings depicting Alu Kurumba life, using only natural pigments derived from forest materials. His work, ranging in price from ₹400 to ₹2,500, has gained popularity, supporting over 40 community members. The Alu Kurumba art, characterized by its natural paints and stylistic inspiration from the “Ezhuthu Paarai” rock art site, distinguishes itself from other art forms.

The revival of Alu Kurumba art began in the late 1990s with the involvement of NGOs like the CPR Environmental Education Centre and the C.P. Ramaswami Aiyar Foundation. These organizations encouraged the community to transfer their traditional house paintings onto canvas and cloth.

Krishnan’s commitment extended beyond his own artistry. He dedicated his time to training younger generations, even teaching students the day before his unexpected death. His ambition was to secure a Geographical Indicator (GI) tag for Alu Kurumba art to protect its intellectual property rights. Community members now urge the government to fulfill this posthumous wish, honoring his dedication to preserving their cultural heritage.

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