Reviewed by Vibha Raj, Founder, Tanjore Collective
Leaving behind a stressful career is never an easy decision.
For Pooja, it was a journey that eventually led her to something she had always wanted to make more space for — art.
Her Tanjore painting journey began with the Balaji Tanjore - Studio course at Tanjore Collective in Bangalore. What started as learning a traditional art form soon became a deeply personal experience, bringing her peace, mindfulness, and the courage to imagine a different way of life.
A 200 km Journey for Tanjore Painting
Pooja travelled from Mandya to Bangalore twice a week for her studio classes. That meant a 200 km round trip each time — a considerable commitment for a painting course.
But the distance never became a reason to stop.
“Commuting 200 km round-trip twice a week from Mandya sounds exhausting, but I returned home every single day with a happy heart and zero fatigue.”
Over the course of her Balaji painting, she spent several weeks learning, practising, and gradually bringing her artwork together under the guidance of the teachers at the studio.
For Pooja, the experience was not simply about learning how to make a Tanjore painting. It became something she genuinely looked forward to.
Learning in the Studio
Pooja credits the people who guided her along the way for making the experience so special.
“A huge thank you to Vibha, Yashu, and Spurthy for their soft-natured guidance, kindness, and incredible teaching.”
The in-person studio course gave her the opportunity to work on her Balaji painting through regular sessions, while continuing her practice at home between classes.
There is something unique about learning Tanjore painting this way — watching each stage take shape, working patiently on the details, and having teachers around to guide you when you need help.
And for Pooja, that process had an impact well beyond the canvas.
When Art Becomes a New Beginning
By the time she completed her Balaji Tanjore painting, Pooja had discovered that the practice of painting had brought a sense of calm into her everyday life.
“Completing this painting brought so much peace and mindfulness into my life.”
That feeling eventually gave her the confidence to make a much bigger change.
“It gave me the courage to step away from my tech job and begin a whole new chapter—spending meaningful time with my kids, enjoying our home, and immersing myself in art.”
It is perhaps the most meaningful part of Pooja’s story. Her painting did not just become something she created. It became part of a larger change in how she wanted to spend her time and what she wanted to make room for in her life.
Continuing Her Tanjore Painting Journey Online
Pooja’s journey with Tanjore Collective continued even after completing her Balaji painting.
She went on to join a Live online Tanjore painting course, beginning her next painting, Shiva Parivar, in 2026.
This time, instead of travelling to the studio, she could continue learning from home through live online classes, with guidance from Vibha Raj and support from the assistant teachers.
As she put it:
“Since June 1st, I’ve also started my journey with the Shiva Parivar painting!”
Her move from an in-person studio course to an online Tanjore painting class shows how learning can continue even as life changes around you.
More Than a Painting
For Pooja, Tanjore painting became more than learning a new art form. It gave her a sense of peace, mindfulness, and the courage to make a change in her life.
Her journey began with a Balaji Tanjore painting and has now continued with Shiva Parivar. Along the way, art has become a meaningful part of her new chapter — one that gives her more time for her children, her home, and herself.
Hear from students who've learned the art of Tanjore painting with us.
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
Radha
Tanjore Painting
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
