Jharkhand, a state in eastern India, is rich in tribal culture and heritage. This is reflected in the state's art and architecture, which dates back to prehistoric times. The earliest forms of art in Jharkhand are rock carvings and sculptures, found in caves and rock shelters throughout the state. These works of art provide valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of the people who lived in Jharkhand thousands of years ago.
Rock Carvings and Sculptures
Rock art in Jharkhand is predominantly found in the form of petroglyphs, which are images created by removing part of a rock surface by incising, picking, carving, or abrading. These carvings depict a variety of subjects, including animals, humans, and geometric patterns. Some of the most notable examples of rock art in Jharkhand can be found at:
Isko Rock Shelter: Located in Hazaribagh district, this site features a large number of petroglyphs, including depictions of hunting scenes, animals, and human figures. The style of these paintings is remarkably similar to the traditional Sohrai paintings still practiced today, indicating a continuity of artistic tradition in the region for thousands of years. In April 2023, the Isko rock art site was declared a national monument by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Satpahar: Also in Hazaribagh district, this site is known for its rock paintings depicting animals, humans, and abstract designs.
These rock carvings and paintings provide valuable insights into the lives of early humans in Jharkhand. They depict their hunting practices, their relationship with nature, and their beliefs and rituals. They also showcase the early artistic sensibilities and techniques of the people of the region.
Development of Tribal Art Forms
The tribal communities of Jharkhand have a rich tradition of art and craft. Their art forms are deeply intertwined with their daily lives, rituals, and beliefs. Some of the prominent tribal art forms of Jharkhand include:
Sohrai Paintings: These are traditional murals done on the walls of mud houses, primarily by women, during the harvest festival of Sohrai. They use natural colors derived from haematites and clay, depicting geometric patterns, animals, plants, and scenes from daily life.
Khovar Paintings: Similar to Sohrai, Khovar paintings are done during marriage ceremonies and decorate the bridal chamber.
Wooden Crafts: Tribes like the Santhals and Mundas are skilled in wood carving, creating masks, toys, and objects for daily use.
Metal Crafts: The tribes of Jharkhand also have a tradition of metalwork, creating tools, weapons, and ornaments.
Bamboo Crafts: Bamboo is widely used in Jharkhand for creating baskets, mats, and other household items.
These tribal art forms are not just aesthetic expressions but also serve social and cultural functions. They are used in rituals, ceremonies, and everyday life, reflecting the close relationship between art and life in tribal communities
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