India’s rich tribal heritage and craftsmanship was remarkably showcased at the 18th G20 Summit, which was selected and showcased by TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India), Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Artefacts and products displayed by TRIFED at G20 Summit
Longpi Pottery
- The Tangkhul Naga tribe of Longpi village, Manipur practices this extraordinary pottery style.
- Longpi pottery differs in appearance because a potter’s wheel is not used in its manufacture; Everything is made by hand.
- The distinctive grey-black cooking pots, stout kettles, quirky bowls etc. are Longpi’s trademark products, but now new designs are being added to expand the product line as well as beautify the existing pottery.
Wind flute of Chhattisgarh
- The ‘Sulur’ bamboo wind flute made by the Gond tribe of Bastar in Chhattisgarh is a unique musical instrument.
- Unlike the traditional flute, the tune is produced through one-handed swing. Its craftsmanship involves careful bamboo selection, hole drilling and surface carving with fish symbols, geometric lines and triangles.
- Beyond music, ‘Sulur’ serves various utilitarian purposes, tribal men use it to chase or drive away animals and to help guide cattle through forests.
- It is a harmonious blend of artistry and functionality, showcasing the distinctive craftsmanship of the Gond tribe.
Gond paintings
- Gond paintings reflect their deep connection with nature and tradition.
- They start with dots, calculating image volume, which they connect to create outer shapes filled with vibrant colors.
- These artworks are deeply connected to their social environment and express themselves as a testament to the artistic talent of the tribe.
Gujarat Hangings
- Gujarati wall hangings, created by the Bhil and Patelia tribes in Dahod, Gujarat, much loved as wall charms, come from an ancient Gujarat art form.
- These hangings initially consisted of dolls and cradle-like nesting birds made from cotton fabric and recycled materials.
- The hangings now include mirror work, zari, stones and beads, which have been developed in line with contemporary fashion while preserving tradition.
Sheep wool stoles
- It was prepared by the Bodh, Bhutia and Gujjar Bakarwal tribes of Himachal Pradesh/Jammu and Kashmir.
- They use sheep’s wool to make various garments including jackets, shawls and stoles.
- Originally featuring monochromatic schemes of white, black and grey, the world of tribal craftsmanship is undergoing a makeover.
Display of rajasthan artistry
Mosaic lamp
- It reflects the mosaic art style, meticulously crafted into lamp shades and candle holders. When it is illuminated, it displays a polymorphism of colors, making every space illuminated.
Ambabadi Metalwork
- It is crafted by the Meena tribe and includes enameling, a meticulous process that enhances the beauty of the metal.
- Presently it extends to metals like gold as well as silver and copper.
Meenakari Crafts
- Meenakari craft involves decorating metal surfaces with colored minerals, a tradition that reflects exceptional skill and was introduced by the Mughals.
- It requires extraordinary skill as intricate designs are carved into the metal, creating grooves for the enamel colours.