Patterns of India: A Journey Through Colors, Textiles, and the Vibrancy of Rajasthan

by Christine Chitnis

It's the trip of a lifetime--a textile-based tour of colorful Rajasthan, India featuring more than 200 lush photographs depicting everday life in one of the most vibrant rregions in the world.

Patterns of India is a visual experience that offers intimate insights into the diverse and richly hued Western Indian culture. Color is the thread that binds the vast country together, defining every aspect of life from religion and politics to food and dress. Organized by the five dominant colors royal blue, sandstone, marigold, ivory, and rose, this book explores how deeply color and pattern exist in a symbiotic relationship and are woven into every part of the culture. For instance, the fuchsia found in the draping fabric of a sari is matched by the vibrant chains of roses offered at temple, and the burnt orange spices in the marketplaces are reflected in the henna tattoos given to brides and wedding guests. While every color is imbued with meaning, it is often within the details of patterns that the full story comes to light.

Photographer and writer Christine Chitnis spent over a decade traveling through, getting to know, and falling in love with the intricate patterns of everyday Rajasthani life. With history and culture-based essays woven throughout the more than 200 stunning photographs of architecture, markets, cuisine, art, textiles, and everyday goings-on, Patterns of India captures the beauty and essence of this unique part of the world.

Genres: Travel, Nonfiction, India, Art, Photography, Coffee Table Books, Architecture

288 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2020

About the author

Christine Chitnis is a writer and photographer based in Providence, Rhode Island. The author of four books—including Patterns of India (Clarkson Potter, 2020)—and a contributor to publications including the New York Times, Elle, Martha Stewart Living, Boston Globe and Condé Nast Traveler, Christine has not only earned a reputation as a multi-talented storyteller, but also as a trusted strategist in the lifestyle publishing sector. She is currently at work on her fifth book, Patterns of Portugal (Clarkson Potter).

From book proposals to publicity, Christine helps fellow business owners and creatives translate their unique skills into marketable concepts. Working with first-time authors and seasoned writers alike, her vast network of editorial relationships and publishing experience has helped clients land contracts with respected publishers, features in top tier publications and even prestigious rankings on the New York Times Best Seller list. Christine also brings a practical understanding of book promotion to her projects, helping clients secure sponsored book tours and paid brand collaborations.

In her own work, Christine has long been inspired by the natural world and the craft of local artisans. From childhood summers in Northern Michigan, to the farms and coastline of her home in New England, to exploring the culture of Rajasthan with her husband, Vijay, she enjoys sharing this passion for discovery with her three young children—Vijay, Vikram and Meera.

Visit her at ChristineChitnis.com or on Instagram @christine.chitnis.

Reviews

[Rinku · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a visual delight. I had a great deal of enjoyment just looking at the images. I found all of it just sparking my creative mojo with fabulous colors, designs and texture. The text of this book was informative and easy to read. I have found some Indian art books to be so dense that they are almost unreadable this book definitely doesn't fall into this category.

If you haven't been to India this book will take you there with signposts to explain what you are seeing. I have been to India several times and to some of the locations in this book, though the images looked familiar the author's photos offered a new perspective and noted things I probably didn't even notice.

This book is eye candy at its best that will leave you feeling good as an armchair traveler.

[Aasinathena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to this,now I know how glorious Rajasthan is... And also its on the bucket list to travel someday ! Such a beautiful book and if you are a world travel enthusiast,this has to be on your shelf and flaunt on the coffee table.

[Elizabeth Judd Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful photography book about Rajasthan, split into chapters devoted to specific colors. So many lovely textiles, buildings, and people!

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having lived in India for some years, I can say that Christine Chitnis did a marvelous work at encapsulating the spirit and vibrancy of Rajasthan.

The idea to arrange the multitude of photographs around the main colors of the state was a great way to go : Sandstone, Marigold, Rose, Ivory & Royal Blue. The sole sight of those colors is so evocative that it will inevitably bring nostalgia to anyone having visited the region before.

Moreover, each and every photograph is stunning and the artist stroke a good blend of daily scenes, portraits and architectural wonders. Not to mention, the cultural and technical explanations also provide relevant insights for the reader.

On top of that, the book itself is made of great quality-paper, and it has been a delight to indulge in it.

Overall, a beautiful tribute to this rich and colorful part of the world...

Thanks for bringing Rajasthan all the way back to France, in order to lighten our cold and bleak European winter 2020 ! I am now just longing to visit again!

[Saniya Chitale · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patterns of India is a beautiful exploration of Rajasthani textiles and everyday life in Rajasthan. The author Christine Chitnis has beautifully weaved in connections between color, customs, food and textiles of India. Her thorough research and personal connection with the land have enhanced the structure and content of this book. From the history of hand block printing to flowers offered in temples to street food fare....and so on... this book has it all.

As she takes us on this colorful journey we see vibrant photographs that the author has captured. Each of the chapters is arranged by color which captures the essence and makes the narrative all the more interesting.

I would love to see her capture other parts of India. She has done such an amazing job in capturing the diversity of this north western frontier that it would be great to see her lens at looking at textiles in other regions.

[Hailee Mumme · Rating 4 out of 5]

“No matter where we live, our lives are filled with color and pattern, but as we move through the world at an increasingly frenzied pace, we often fail to notice them.”

A photographer’s journey through Rajasthan—less about history, more about capturing the region’s vibrant colors and patterns through a personal lens.

My takeaway: India’s incredible block printing techniques—along with the intricate stonework and hand-painted architecture that bring such artistry to buildings and structures.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous. I drank in all the pictures, and I aspire to someday read the accompanying words as well. I want to own this beautiful book, and even more I want to travel to India like never before.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful photographs and I learned a little bit about this part of India in the process. As a textile artist myself, it inspired me.

[Sanjukta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful account of the textile and architectural history of Rajasthan. Must read for anybody who enjoys photography, and takes immense interest and pride in the creative history of Rajasthan.

[Mouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just stunning, so much art inspiration, which is why l had to include it here. Its more of a coffee table book but very colourful and informative.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the floral patterns were so beautiful to look at

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous photos.

[Julia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely, colorful, and interesting photo book.

[Neha D'souza · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this book would be about the history of Indian fabrics, textiles, architecture, culture with a deep dive into patterns. Unfortunately, it’s not. It’s just a series of photos with anecdotes.

If I wanted to see beautiful photos accompanied by personal anecdotes, I’d follow the author on Instagram.

[Theodora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book. Simple explanations which I prefer over heavy text and lot of pictures. Stunning!

[Betty-Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of the book says it all. I will just add that is a beautiful book. ❤️

[Shivani Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stunning visuals. A great reference book for patterns, colours and architecture of Rajasthan!

[Lyndsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow, a feast for the eyes for sure!

[Orsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful book!

[Mary L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning and comprehensive book. The author has a very deep connection to the region, thanks to her husband, and her respect for the culture comes shining through the vibrant pages. There are over 200 photographs, each more beautiful than the next. They are arranged by color, which makes for a really immersive reading experience.

[Britta Neumann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been fascinated with India, their people, cultures , colours , textiles , food landscape since I was a teenager . It is on my bucket list to travel to . Christine Chitnis captures all of what I love about this country and more in her book. It is an enriching sensual experience to travel through the pages of her book in these uncertain times . I highly recommend the book.

[Rusha · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thought this would be a nice exploration on the history of print/architecture/patterning of Rajasthan. But it's just a collection of anecdotes from the author's travels to India with some generic facts

[Cara Dobrev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful and inspiring, the photos fed the art lover in me.

[Rachel B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful!

Anyone who enjoys travel, art, architecture, or textiles will likely adore this book.

I really liked that the pages were all matte.

[Hasini | bibliosini · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful coffee table book with some beautiful photography! The colours are vibrant!

[Tracy]

This book wasn't quite what I was expecting, based on the title. I think I would have enjoyed it more if it was named differently. I went in hoping for a focus on patterns in clothing, architecture, and artwork, a visual reference for graphic design and illustration inspiration. Some elements of those are included but the focus is more on everyday life. The color dividers didn't totally work for me, either. Some of the essays were interesting but again just not quite what I had been wanting out of the book.

[Ikoy ･ ･ﾟ*☆ ☽ · Rating 4 out of 5]

“While every color is imbued with meaning, it is often within the details of the pattern that the full story comes to light.”

I enjoyed seeing the beautiful photographs by Christine Chitnis, which show what Rajasthan has to offer. I get to glimpse the state's beauty through patterns and vibrant colors in their architecture, lifestyles, and clothing 💕

[Lindsay Kinney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a visual delight that is complete with vivid details and descriptions of traditional art, color, and life in India. Divided by dominant color, the book’s sections are organized by: sandstone, marigold, rose, ivory, and royal blue. The saturation of hues in these photographs is quite striking.

[Olivia Kowalski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this as a treat for myself and I’m so glad I did . This author captures the essence and beauty of Rajasthan so perfectly.

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

An incredibly beautiful and inspiring book.