The colors used in Patna Kalam paintings were often muted tones like:

Brown, black, and ochre
Bright yellows, reds, and greens
Shades of blue and purple
Pastels

The correct answer is: Brown, black, and ochre.

Patna Kalam paintings are a type of Indian miniature painting that originated in the city of Patna in the 16th century. The paintings are characterized by their use of muted tones, such as brown, black, and ochre. These colors are often used to create a sense of depth and atmosphere in the paintings.

The use of muted tones in Patna Kalam paintings is in contrast to the bright colors that are often used in other types of Indian miniature painting. This difference in color palette is likely due to the fact that Patna Kalam paintings were originally created for use in religious ceremonies. The muted tones of the paintings were meant to create a sense of solemnity and reverence.

In addition to their use of muted tones, Patna Kalam paintings are also characterized by their use of gold leaf. Gold leaf is often used to highlight important figures or objects in the paintings. It can also be used to create decorative patterns or borders.

Patna Kalam paintings are a beautiful and unique example of Indian miniature painting. The use of muted tones and gold leaf gives the paintings a distinctive appearance that is unlike any other type of Indian miniature painting.

Here is a brief explanation of each option:

  • Bright yellows, reds, and greens: These colors are often used in other types of Indian miniature painting, but they are not typically used in Patna Kalam paintings. The use of these colors would create a painting that is too bright and vibrant for the religious ceremonies for which Patna Kalam paintings were originally created.
  • Shades of blue and purple: These colors are also not typically used in Patna Kalam paintings. They are more commonly used in paintings that depict scenes from nature or from the lives of Hindu gods and goddesses.
  • Pastels: Pastels are a type of paint that is made with a lot of white pigment. They are often used to create paintings that are light and airy. Pastels would not be a good choice for Patna Kalam paintings, as they would not create the desired effect of solemnity and reverence.