SOHRAI PAINTING: ART & CULTURE
NEWS: PM Modi Gifts Jharkhand’s Sohrai Painting to
Putin at BRICS Summit.
WHAT’S
IN THE NEWS?
The gesture not only
enhanced diplomatic relations but also showcased India’s rich tribal arts.
Sohrai
Painting
Art Form:
·
Sohrai painting is an indigenous mural art form
primarily practiced by tribal women in the Indian state of Jharkhand. It has
also spread to neighboring states like Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal. Known
for its unique styles and rich heritage, it holds an important place in India’s
traditional art forms.
Historical Origins:
·
The origins of Sohrai painting are ancient,
dating back to the Meso-chalcolithic period (approximately 9000-5000 BC).
Evidence of similar art forms can be found in rock shelters, such as the Isko
Rock Shelter in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, where rock paintings bear resemblance to
traditional Sohrai motifs.
Themes and Motifs:
·
Sohrai paintings reflect the deep connection
tribal communities have with nature. The themes often incorporate elements of
the natural world, including forests, rivers, and animals. These paintings
serve not only as decorative art but also as a medium to convey cultural
stories and beliefs.
Materials Used:
·
True to its roots, Sohrai painting is made with
natural materials. Artists use charcoal, different types of clay, and soil to
create the vivid colors and textures in the artwork. The colors range from
earthy browns to bright reds, symbolizing the elements of nature.
Style and Characteristics:
·
Sohrai paintings are celebrated for their
vibrant colors, detailed patterns, and symbolic motifs. They feature a range of
intricate designs, often representing animals, floral elements, and geometrical
patterns. This style of art represents the cultural identity of the communities
that practice it.
GI Tag:
·
Recognizing its cultural significance and
uniqueness, the Sohrai painting from Hazaribagh in Jharkhand was awarded the
Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This status helps in preserving the art form
and promoting it as a distinct heritage of Jharkhand.
ODOP Recognition:
·
The painting style has also been recognized as
an ODOP (One District, One Product) item under the ODOP initiative, which aims
to promote specialized products from each district, thus supporting local
artisans and boosting regional economies.
One
District One Product (ODOP)