Kalighat painting or Kalighat Pat originated in 19th century Bengal, in the vicinity of Kalighat Kali Temple, Kalighat in Kolkata and from being items of souvenir taken by the visitors to the Kali temple.

The paintings over a period of time developed as a distinct school of Indian painting.

From the depiction of Hindu gods, goddesses and other mythological characters, the Kalighat paintings developed to reflect a variety of themes.