A symbol of love and affection, the beautiful Kalamkari painting of Lord Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi is being given a refine and detail treatment. The enhancing effulgence of colours and the characters that emerge on cotton fabric, help create a resplendent spread. Kalamkari painting is unique in its use of colour as a medium to depict mythological characters. Kalamkari has a glorious history. The popularity of this exquisite form of art crossed the shores of the country during the 17th and 18th centuries. Kalahasti and Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, the nerve centres of this art continue to be beehives of Kalamkari activity. Kalamkari colours are made from vegetable dyes and no chemicals are used whatsoever. In addition to themes from the epics, Kalamkari leitmotifs comprise different forms of the lotus flower, the carwheel, parrots, an interlacing pattern of leaves and flowers.