Dhokra Art - The Art of the Indian Tribe

 - By Sanya Tyagi

DHOKRA ART:

The Art of The Indian Tribes

Overview

 

Known for its cultural diversity, India harbors different traditions, practices, and age-old rituals. The handicrafts created by local artists from all around the country are tremendously popular worldwide. They are said to be an important illustration of Indian culture and tradition. Typically manufactured from natural raw materials, Indian handicrafts are environmentally friendly. Dhokra art is one of the many unique handicrafts that originated from the Indian subcontinent that has passed the test of time.

It is also known as bell metal craft, an ancient form of art that originated in the tribal regions of India. This unique form of metal casting involves a painstaking process that requires immense skill and patience, making each piece of Dhokra art a true masterpiece.

 

The History of Dhokra Art

 

The origins of Dhokra art can be traced back to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the people of this civilization were skilled metal workers, and some of their artifacts show striking similarities to Dhokra art. The art form also has roots in the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro, where craftsmen used to make intricate sculptures and jewellery out of metal.

 

Over time, Dhokra art spread to various parts of India, especially in the tribal regions of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. The craft has been passed down from generation to generation and is still practiced by the tribal communities in these areas.

 

The Dhokra Casting Process

 

The Dhokra casting process involves a complex set of steps that require immense skill and attention to detail. The process begins with the creation of a clay mould, which is made by mixing clay with rice husk and cow dung. This mixture is then shaped by hand to create the desired form.

 

Once the mould is ready, a mixture of beeswax, resin, and nut oil is applied to the surface of the mould. The artisan then uses various tools to create the intricate design and details of the sculpture, which are etched onto the wax.

 

Next, the wax-covered mould is covered in a layer of clay and dried in the sun. The clay is then fired in a kiln, causing the wax to melt and flow out of the mould, leaving behind a cavity in the exact shape of the sculpture.

 

Molten metal, usually a mixture of copper, brass, and nickel, is then poured into the mould and left to cool and solidify. Once the metal has hardened, the clay is broken away to reveal the finished product.

 

The finished Dhokra sculpture is then polished and finished with various tools to bring out its shine and lustre. The final product is a beautiful piece of art that is unique and one-of-a-kind.

 

The Symbolism of Dhokra Art

Dhokra art has evolved over the centuries, and today, it is a significant symbol of tribal culture and heritage. It is rich in symbolism and has a deep meaning attached to it. Nature is a crucial theme in it. The art often depicts animals, birds, and trees, and these elements are symbolic of the harmony that exists between humans and nature. The artisans believe that the earth and its creatures are sacred, and this is reflected in their art. Many of the dhokra art pieces also depict fertility symbols such as animals with their young ones or a couple with a child. These symbols represent the idea of abundance and prosperity, both in terms of material wealth and spiritual fulfillment. It also has figurines of animals such as elephants, tigers, and lions, which are considered symbols of protection and strength. These figurines are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. As art has evolved over the years, artisans are now using the technique to create contemporary pieces of art. These pieces often depict modern themes such as social issues, politics, and cultural changes.

 

The Significance of Dhokra Art

Dhokra art is more than just a beautiful piece of art; it is an integral part of the tribal culture and heritage of India. The craft has been passed down from generation to generation, with each new artist adding their own unique touch and style to the craft.

 

The art form is significant for the tribal communities as it provides them with a means of livelihood and a way to preserve their cultural heritage. The craft has also played an important role in promoting tourism in these areas, with visitors coming from all over the world to witness the beauty of Dhokra art.

 

Dhokra art is also significant for its intricate designs and attention to detail. The art form often depicts scenes from daily life, such as farming, hunting, and traditional ceremonies, making it a unique representation of the tribal culture and way of life.

 

The Future of Dhokra Art

 

Despite its rich history and cultural significance, Dhokra art is facing several challenges in the modern world. The rise of mass-produced goods and cheap imitations has made it difficult for traditional artisans to compete in the market.

Most individuals are reluctant to spend such a significant sum of money on Dhokra handicrafts which have discouraged the artisans from creating Dhokra art paintings. Furthermore, the craftsmen have a tremendous obstacle in creating the Dhokra art due to a lack of appropriate knowledge and technology. The younger generation of artisans is selecting employment that offers a stable lifestyle and income instead of working in the handicraft industry.

 

To address this issue, several organizations and NGOs have stepped up to support the craft and promote it to a wider audience. These initiatives include training programs, marketing assistance, and access to modern tools and technologies.

 

Additionally, the Indian government has also recognized the importance of Dhokra art and has taken steps to protect and promote the craft.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, Dhokra art is a vibrant art form that is deeply rooted in tribal culture and heritage. The art is a reflection of the deep connection that tribal communities have with nature and their beliefs and traditions. The symbolism of dhokra art is multi-layered and carries a deep meaning that reflects the identity and spirit of the tribal communities.

 

And therefore, as active citizens of the country, we should respect and embrace Indian culture by investing in such hand-made ornaments and crafts, so that with changing times, we don't lose the essence of what differentiates India from the rest of the world: its art, culture, and diversity.

Also Read : https://bharatradition.blogspot.com/2023/04/banarasi-saree-16th-century-silk-craft.html?m=1