Traditional Crafts

Various kinds of exotic handicrafts made by the skilled hands of Bastar tribals are available in shops which are concentrated at Kumharapara, Jagdalpur. Narayanpur- the centre of the famous handicraft village where you’ll find some of the finest works in bell metal, terracotta, wood, wrought iron and bamboo. You will also visit the Ramakrishna Mission centre, which is doing a lot of welfare work with the tribal people.

These include wooden crafts, bamboo crafts, terracota, bell metal items,wrought iron items and cotton fabrics (Kosa sari etc).

Chattisgarh is a storehouse of literature, performing arts and crafts - all of which derives its substance and sustenance from the day-to-day life experiences of its people. Religion, mythology, social and political events, nature and folklore are favourite motifs. Traditional crafts include painting, woodcarving, bell metal craft, bamboo ware and tribal jewellery.

The tribals of Bastar were amongst the earliest to work with metal - Dhokra casting in bronze and bell metal is their particular area of expertise. They make figurines of tribal gods, votive animals, oil lamps, carts and animals. Artistes create intricately crafted hand carved wooden doors, windows, ceilings, lintels, masks and sculptures of tribal cult figures from teak, shisham, sal and other hardwoods found in the Chattisgarh forests. Local artists now paint on cloth or paper but traditionally all painting was done on the floors and walls of homes or temples. These paintings feature figures and themes from mythology or depicted religious rituals. The Pithora style of painting is closely identified with the tribals of the region and is normally painted on ceremonial occasions such as festivals, marriages or other celebrations.

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