In India, the first traces of paintings can be attributed to the prehistoric period. These paintings are made in the Bhimbetka caves in Madhya Pradesh. On the quartzite walls of the rock shelters these paintings were executed with the help of mineral pigments, efficiently ocher. These paintings have shown various animal and human figures, hunting scenes, and animals standing, running, and grazing.
When we explore the literary sources we find several references to paintings in the early periods of the Christian era. For example, the play Mudrarakshasa gives references to legs (paintings) along with details about Yama-pata, Cauka-pata and dighala-pata. Similarly, in another historical work, Vishnudharmottara, a chitrasutra section elaborates the basic principles of painting. The early Buddhist work, Vinayapitaka, also makes reference to the existence of painted figures on many royal buildings.
During the Satavahana period and the following period, several beautiful murals were made in Ajanta and other places such as the Mahadeo hills, the Ellora temples and the Bagh caves. Based on these factors, the period between the 4th and 6th centuries AD is known as the golden period of Indian arts. The Pallava and Chola reign in the southern part of India also encouraged painting along with sculpture.
The Pala kings in Bengal gave immense support to the cause of paintings during the period from the 9th century to the 15th century. These paintings have been found on palm leaves and on the covers of manuscripts. Some historians call these paintings the earliest examples of miniature paintings.
During Mughal rule, miniature paintings reached the pinnacle of their glory. Meanwhile, various types of painting styles originated from different parts of India. Various forms of folk art and tribal paintings became an integral part of Indian culture.