CHHATTISGARH
Chhattisgarh is a renowned state located in Central India, curved out of the state Madhya Pradesh on November 1, 2000. This state is rich in mineral resources and a leading producer of minerals such as coal, iron ore and dolomite. Chhattisgarh is one of the largest producers of Rice in India and also known as Rice Bowl of India. The fertile soil of the state yields various products like wood, spices, honey, wax, tamarind, Copper ore, limestone, coal and phosphate.
The main craft produce of the State include Bamboo work, Wood carving, painting, ornaments, metal art clay art and manufacturing of cotton fabric.
Bamboo Work
Craftsmanship of Chhattisgarh can be seen from varying articles make out of bamboo. Some of the well known Bamboo article includes daily as well as decorative items, agricultural implements, fishing traps, hunting tools and baskets.
Wood Carving
The woodcarving art has been flourishing in Chhattisgarh and one can find beautifully carved wooden products designed by the craftsman of the State. The skillful craftsmen of the State carve beautiful wooden ceilings, doors, lintels etc using different kinds of wood like shisham, teak, dhudi, sal and kikar. The craftsmen also make pipes, masks, doors, window frames and sculptures.
Ornaments
Jewelries in Chhattisgarh are available in a variety of gold, silver, bronze and mixed metal. Craftsmen carved the ornaments made out of beads, cowries and feathers are part of tribal costumes. Tribal men and women wear traditional ornaments.
Terracotta
Like in many other states, Terracotta has found a place in the handicrafts created by Chhattisgarh. Terracotta pottery represents the rituals and customs of tribal life in the state and symbolizes their emotions.
Tumba
Tumba is a less known craft widely produced in the Bastar region, which originated with the widespread use of hollow gourd shells. Tribal use them as containers to store water.
Wall Painting
Pithora paintings are a common traditional art form of the Central India. In most of these tribal houses one can find pithora paintings. They are colorful and use natural colors.
Cotton Fabrics
Kosa fabric is one of the famous and attractive handicrafts made by the tribals of Bastar. The Kosa thread is made from a special worm found in the forest. The fabric is hand woven and hand printed by natural vegetable dye. These fabrics include cotton saris – well-known as Bastar Kosa Saree, dress materials and drapes.
Bell Metal (Dhokra)
Bastar and Raigarh districts of Chhattisgarh are popular for crafting bell metal handicrafts using brass and bronze, also known as Dhokra art. Tribes like ‘Ghawas’ and ‘Jharas’ mainly practice this art form. This is done with lost wax technique or hollow casting.
Wrought Iron (Loha Shilp)
The Loha Shilp or the use of wrought iron metal artifacts is another craft form of Chhattisgarh. The raw material used for this craft is mostly recycled scrap iron. Things like lamps, candle stands, effigies of musicians, toys, figurines, and deities are the typical products made out of this craft.
