Traditional Dhokra Crafts from Tribals of Bastar Chhattisgarh, India

Survival for the ethnic population is dependent on the unfathomed ways of nature. They seem to instinctively sense the very core of nature, converse with its magestic silence and learn from its ancient wisdom. Nature’s exuberance gaiety and colour with all its subtleties have left an indelible mark on their imagination and creativity. They do not attempt to dominate or outwit the natural forces, but have learn to live in harmony with them. All available natural resources are utilized to their optimum potential. Honed and perfected over the generation almost all object of daily use surpass their original function and are transforming into objects of great aesthetic value. As a result, what has evolved is an indigenous technology that is simple in concept but sophisticated in practice. Nowhere is this more clearly reflected than in the construction of their houses. The fences erected around the houses are constructed with bamboo sticks. Pigsties and hencoops are similarly constructed. The houses themselves are made of mud, branches, bamboos, and thatches, all materials sourced from their immediate environment, and skillfully utilized.

Bell Metal (Dhokra):

The BELL METAL or DHOKRA is one of the earliest known method of metal casting. This craft dates back to pre-historic time of Harrappa and Mohenjodaro period of Indus Civilization.

Dhokra metal casting is perhaps the only living tradition of metal image making in Eastern India. The technique has managed to survive many centuries and change of dynasties owing to its modesty of application in everyday lives if traditional tribal people of BASTAR, Chhattisgarh, INDIA by more than 10,000 traditional tribals.

Artwork is done with hand, without any advancement of technology.

The unique 13 stage process of DHOKRA/BELL METAL making is the original creative instinct of the craft persons, which is a beautiful amalgation of art and science.

The ancient art of cire-perdue or lost wax thread method of metal casting is still used by the tribal people of BASTAR, from Chhattisgarh over a last 200 years. They do not attempt to dominate or outwit the natural forces. But have learnt to live in harmony with them. All available natural resources are utilized to their optimum potential.

The DHOKRA/BELL METAL castings of figurines and different animals with their antique look, fits in with interior decor. DHOKRA/BELL METAL is an alloy of brass, nickel and zinc that gives an antique effects of the castings.

Earlier craftsmen used to create only traditional ritualistic items and decorative pieces but now with new designs inputs, there has been a lot of product diversification, resulting in numerous innovative utility items like door handles, lamp shades, hangers, boxes and caskets of different shapes and sizes. More than 10,000 unique old tradition and new design products are available right now and continuously increasing.