The majority of Pahari painting schools developed and flourished between the 17th and 19th centuries in what is now Himachal Pradesh.
The Pahari region, nestled in the Himalayas, was divided into twenty-two administrative units, each governed by Rajput kings, all of whom were patrons of the arts.
Although the Pahari rulers were subordinate to the Mughal Empire, they regularly visited the Mughal court and were well-acquainted with Mughal customs and artistic tastes.
Following the decline of the Mughal Empire, many artists skilled in the refined Mughal style migrated to the hills.
The Pahari princes were strong supporters of both poets and painters, and they were deeply inspired by the breathtaking beauty of the sub-Himalayan landscape.
The full blossoming of Pahari painting occurred in regions like Nurpur, Chamba, Basohli, Guler, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu, and Bilaspur.
Among the finest examples of Pahari painting are the stunning depictions of Radha and Lord Krishna, as well as illustrations from Jayadeva's Gita-Govinda.
Pahari painting is widely considered to have evolved from the Mughal painting tradition, with its growth greatly supported by the Rajput rulers.
