Discover the rich tribal art and traditional crafts of Chhattisgarh – from bell metal and terracotta to weaving and woodwork
Chhattisgarh, known for its vibrant culture and rich heritage, showcases a remarkable array of traditional art, craft, and museums that reflect its deep-rooted history and indigenous way of life. The intricate textiles, bold metalwork, and vibrant paintings highlight a blend of nature and tradition that has been shaped by tribal communities who have preserved their unique style for generations. The state’s museums play a vital role in preserving this cultural wealth, offering a glimpse into its past through artifacts, tools, and artworks that narrate the story of its people and their environment.
BASTAR’S WOODEN CRAFT
Bastar’s wooden craft seamlessly blends the region’s folklore, mythology, rituals, and religious practices into distinctive artworks. These crafts highlight the deep connection between the indigenous tribes and their artistic expressions, while also showcasing the adaptability of the artisans, who skillfully utilise the region’s abundant forest resources. With unique varieties of wood at their disposal, Bastar’s artisans create pieces that vividly depict tribal life—dancing, climbing trees, brewing liquor, and engaging in daily village activities. These crafts not only display the essence of tribal culture but also transport viewers into the scenes portrayed, offering a glimpse into their harmonious coexistence with nature.
The versatility of Bastar’s wooden craft is evident in its diverse products, ranging from functional furniture to decorative items like tribal motifs and idols. Whether it’s a jewellery box, a chair, or a wall hanging, each piece retains the art form’s raw, rustic charm and cultural depth. The intricate detailing, uneven shapes, and symbolic patterns have earned Bastar’s crafts global acclaim. For those wanting to immerse themselves in the unique heritage, visiting Bastar and engaging with its artisans provides an opportunity to take home a handcrafted piece of its soul.
DHOKRA
Dhokra, or bell metal art, is a hallmark of the Bastar and Raigarh districts in Chhattisgarh, where tribal communities like the Ghadwas and Jharas have mastered this craft using the ancient lost-wax casting technique. This method involves intricate hollow casting, resulting in unique, handcrafted figurines and decorative items with a dull gold finish. Each piece is distinct, showcasing the artisan’s precision and creativity. Dhokra products range from ritual idols and utilitarian objects to decorative wall hangings and jewelry such as bracelets, anklets, and pendants. Functional items like nutcrackers, knives, and measuring cups also demonstrate this art form’s versatility. Representing Chhattisgarh on a global scale, Dhokra appeals to collectors and travelers alike, making these stunning handcrafted items ideal souvenirs and home decor pieces.
TERRACOTTA
Terracotta art in Chhattisgarh is a traditional craft deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual life of the region. This art form exhibits the beliefs, aspirations, and daily life of the people, with figures often depicting deities, animals, and scenes from rural life. Practiced primarily in regions like Bastar, Raigarh, and Ambikapur, terracotta is crafted using age-old techniques where artisans hand-shape or mold the clay on potter’s wheels. Clay is carefully collected from riverbanks, prepared through a meticulous process, and then transformed into intricate and expressive creations. From decorative items to functional objects, terracotta art embodies the region’s artistic heritage and continues to captivate with its earthy charm and cultural significance.
WROUGHT IRON
Chhattisgarh’s wrought iron craft depicts the tribal communities’ relationship to their environment and their resourcefulness in repurposing materials. Crafted from recycled scrap iron, these artifacts are skillfully forged by heating and shaping the metal in furnaces, using tongs to create intricate designs. The precision of the artisans ensures that the final products appear seamless, with no visible joints. Common items include decorative lamps, figurines of deities, animals, and musicians, each showcasing the unique blend of functionality and artistry that defines this traditional craft. Wrought iron art not only highlights the creativity of Chhattisgarh’s tribes but also stands as a testament to their sustainable practices.
STONE CARVING/PAINTING
Stone carving and painting in Chhattisgarh is a display of the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The high-quality Sudapaal stone of Bastar provides an excellent medium for artisans to create intricate works of art. Using tools like chisels and stone cutters, they rely on freehand carving to craft detailed motifs and sculptures. Once the carving is complete, the pieces are polished with traditional stones called battas, enhancing their finish. These artisans create religious idols such as Shiva, Parvati, and Ganesha. They also create vessels, and pillars (known as Memory Pillars), which depict key events from the lives of the departed. The detailed craftsmanship of these tribal stone works continues to captivate tourists and art enthusiasts, showcasing the community’s devotion and aspirations.
BAMBOO CRAFT
Bamboo craft in Chhattisgarh is an outstanding example of the creativity and resourcefulness of its tribal communities, who skillfully utilise the region’s abundant bamboo to create functional and decorative items. From table mats, wall hangings, and baskets to table lamps, hunting tools, and fishing traps, bamboo craft serves both everyday and artistic purposes. Over time, this traditional art form has evolved, with contemporary artisans infusing modern designs, textures, and colors while preserving the essence of their heritage. Today, bamboo is transformed into a wide range of products, including furniture, home decor, and even fashion accessories, showcasing the versatility and timeless appeal of this craft.
PAINTINGS
The paintings of Chhattisgarh reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage and strong tribal influences. With a history dating back thousands of years, Chhattisgarh’s art includes prehistoric rock paintings, folk art, and intricate styles like Pithora and Pattachitra. Rock art found in caves depicts scenes of hunting, dancing, and daily life, while Pithora paintings, often created on the walls of homes, are believed to bring good fortune and protect against evil spirits. These artworks, characterised by vibrant colors and intricate patterns, play an important role in tribal rituals and traditions, marking significant events such as births and marriages. Each painting tells a story of the tribes’ lifestyle, beliefs, and cultural practices, leaving visitors spellbound by the beauty and history of this unique art form.
THE FABRIC OF CHHATTISGARH – KOSA SILK
Chhattisgarh is renowned for its exquisite Kosa silk also known as Tussar, a hallmark of the state’s rich textile heritage. This is a premium variety of silk produced from native silkworms. Known for its natural sheen and durability, Kosa silk is primarily woven in the regions of Bastar, Raigarh and Champa, where skilled artisans have perfected the art of silk weaving over generations. The fabric is crafted into luxurious sarees and textiles, often adorned with block prints, intricate embroidery, or hand-painted designs, making each piece a work of art. As the backbone of Chhattisgarh’s handloom industry, Kosa silk is a leading symbol of the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the region. No visit to Chhattisgarh is complete without taking home a beautiful Kosa silk creation as a cherished souvenir.
WHERE TO SHOP FOR AUTHENTIC CHHATTISGARH HANDICRAFTS AND HANDLOOMS
For art and craft enthusiasts seeking authentic Chhattisgarh handicrafts, the “Shabari Emporium” is an excellent option. Established in 2001 by the Chhattisgarh Handicraft Development Board (also known as Chhattisgarh Hastshilp Vikas Board), these emporiums provide a wide selection of traditional handmade items. With a well-established network across the state, Shabari Emporiums can be found in cities such as Raipur (including an outlet at Swami Vivekananda Airport), Amapara, Ambikapur, Bhilai, Bilaspur, Jagdalpur, Jashpur, Kondagaon, Korba, Mainpat, Narayanpur, Parchanpal, and Rajnandgaon, making it convenient for visitors to explore and purchase unique local crafts.
You can also explore handlooms and handicrafts at Bilasa Handloom Emporium, Chhattisgarh Haat, and Yogita Weaves Handloom.
This article is published in collaboration with Chhattisgarh Tourism Board
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