Indigenous Artistry and Craftsmanship of Odisha's PVTGs:

The researcher is deeply fascinated by the necklace worn by a Bonda lady in Malakanagir District, Odisha.

The Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of Odisha exhibit a rich cultural richness through their ingenious arts and crafts. Among them, the Bonda women skillfully weave their traditional clothes, such as the ringa, a one-and-a-half-feet-sized garment, and gasi, a loin cloth for men. The ringa holds special significance as it is crafted using natural fibers gathered from tree bark and expertly woven by Bonda craftspersons. Meanwhile, the Mankirdia community's economy thrives on the art of rope making, where they harvest various fibers by skilfully stripping the bark of seasoned siali creepers collected from the forests. The Juangs excel in crafting bamboo combs, adorned with intricate graphic pictures of floral or animal designs achieved through heating thick needles. The Saora Shaman's unique artistic expression, known as Idital, manifests in the form of wall paintings dedicated to appeasing their Gods and ancestors, reflecting their aesthetic, cultural, and religious life. The Didayi people adeptly practice both shifting and settled cultivation while showcasing their craftsmanship in bamboo-based products, like baskets, dolleys for storing grains, and decorative items. Additionally, the Dongria girls showcase their talent through cotton scarf embroidery work, while Dongria men excel in decorated woodcarving for doorframes and sacrificial wooden posts, and their women contribute to the community through intricate wall paintings. These artistic expressions of the PVTGs in Odisha truly signify their cultural efflorescence and Indigenous heritage. 

BIRHOR: The Birhor showcases their exceptional skills in basket weaving and rope making using a diverse range of materials, including siali fiber, sabai grass, and jute fiber. They are also known for their expertise in khali stitching and processing techniques, which add intricate detailing to their creations.

A skilled tribal craftsman deeply immersed in the traditional art of crafting bags from Siali fiber. (Captured images by the author)

BONDO: The Bondo excels in the art of handloom cloth weaving, producing exquisite fabrics with traditional techniques. They also showcase their creativity through carpet weaving, crafting beautiful bead necklaces, and mastering the craft of broomstick making, adding utility and artistry to their daily lives.

CHUKUTIA BHUNJIA: The Chukutia Bhunjia displays their artistic finesse through the creation of musical instruments, ornate bead necklaces, and intricate tribal jewelry. Their comb-making and bamboo craft add to their repertoire of skilled craftsmanship.

An elderly Chukutia Bhunjia man elegantly posing for a photograph with his Sitar. (Captured images by the author)

DIDAYI: The Didayi showcases their proficiency in bamboo basketry and broomstick making, utilizing natural resources in their surroundings. They also contribute to the art of handloom clothes weaving, displaying a harmonious blend of utility and aesthetics.

DONGARIA KANDHA: Embroidery called Kapadagandh and wood carving are among the prominent talents of the Dongaria Kandha, adding embellishments to various artifacts and structures. Their expertise in comb-making and wall painting further exemplifies their artistic flair.

An artisan from the Dongaria Kondh tribe skillfully crafting Kapadagandh. (Captured images by the author)

HILL KHARIA: The Hill Kharai engages in the collection and processing of honey, resin, and arrowroot, while their skills in broomstick making and mat weaving showcase their resourcefulness. Additionally, their Khali stitching and pressing techniques add value to their craftwork.

JUANG: The Juang demonstrates their artistry through wood carving and comb making, reflecting their cultural heritage and artistic sensibility.

Beautiful wooden combs made by the Juang Tribe through skilled carving. (Captured images by the author)

KUTIA KANDHA: Wood carving and broomstick making are the areas of expertise for the Kutia Kandha, displaying their dedication to preserving traditional crafts.

LANJIA SAORA: The Lanjia Saora expresses their culture through the art of Idital (wall painting) and wood carving, adding intricate details and symbolism to their creations.

Idital (Kituung Sum) art form skilfully crafted by Laxman Sabar, a renowned artist and Professor of Practice at KISS-DU.

 (Pictogram courtesy: Laxman Sabar)

LODHA: The Lodha excels in the craft of sabai rope making, a skill that plays a crucial role in their daily lives. Additionally, their knowledge of herbal medicine highlights their deep connection with nature and its healing properties.

MANKIRDIA: The Mankirdia showcases their mastery in working with siali fiber, crafting durable and artistic rope and baskets. Their varieties of siali fiber crafts demonstrate their creativity and resourcefulness.

A skilled individual from the Mankirdia group, deeply engrossed in the intricate art of rope making.

(Captured images by the author)

PAUDI BHUYAN: The Paudi Bhuyan demonstrates their proficiency in broomstick making, mat weaving, and basketry, adding functionality and cultural significance to their creations.

SAORA: The Saora's artistic expression shines through their Idital (wall painting), wood carving, and carpet weaving, reflecting their deep-rooted beliefs and creative spirit.

The Birhore and Mankirdia tribes create modern handbags using Siali fiber.(Captured images by the author)

The art and crafts of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Odisha hold profound significance, serving as a vivid portrayal of their cultural heritage and identity. Not only do these artistic traditions showcase the creativity and skills of the communities, but they also play a crucial role in their socio-economic well-being. In a rapidly evolving world, where traditional ways of life are often threatened, these crafts serve as a lifeline for the communities, providing them with a sustainable source of livelihood. Each carefully crafted piece is a testament to the rich cultural diversity of Odisha's Indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their deep-rooted traditions and artistic expressions. The visually captivating and meaningful art forms not only contribute to their economic sustenance but also serve as a powerful link to their past, preserving and celebrating their unique heritage for future generations.