Ganjifa Cards of Mysore
Folk Painting
History
Mysore ganjifa cards, designed by Mummadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar III (1794–1868), featured unique themes like Chamundeshwari and the king’s life. He created 13 ganjifa games to teach scriptures and mythology. Originally crafted from ivory and mother of pearl for royals and cloth or paper for the public, these cards survive today as decorative or novelty items.
Raw Materials and Tools
Ganjappa cards are handcrafted using cotton fabric stiffened with tamarind glue and chalk powder. Intricate designs are painted with mouse-hair brushes and natural pigments like lamp soot. The cards are coated with Kewda leaves and lacquer for shine, durability, and termite protection. Historically, royal decks were adorned with gold and silver, symbolizing luxury and making them prized possessions.
Process
To make ganjifa paper cards, artists paste 10–20 layers of newspaper together to make a thick sheet. On the top and bottom, they paste a plain drawing sheet. A base coat of colour is applied to the card. Using fine brushes, some with just one hair, the paintings are made on the card.
Design and Color
Ganjifa cards are mostly based on themes inspired by mythology, astrology, epics, ancient texts, astronomy, and Hinduism (the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Puranas) were used in the card games.
Product Range
Ganjifa cards have transitioned from playable decks to decorative collectibles. They are now crafted as wall art, coasters, trays, bookmarks, keychains, jewelry boxes, and framed artworks. Some artisans recreate Ganjifa designs on fabric, leather, and paper for modern adaptations rather than widely-used playing cards.