From Gond paintings on canvas, and Chamba kerchiefs from Himachal Pradesh that depict the life of Krishna, Paramparik Karigar's upcoming exhibition presents the craft of tribal artisans showing in the city for the first time
From Gond paintings on canvas, and Chamba kerchiefs from Himachal Pradesh that depict the life of Krishna, Paramparik Karigar's upcoming exhibition presents the craft of tribal artisans showing in the city for the first time
While most Indians know their Panchatantra (thanks mostly to Amar Chitra Katha), little is known about folktales and artworks from India's tribal regions. And with tribal craftsmen leaving their practice to find lucrative jobs, the arts might be on their way to extinction. 
Sanjhi paper stencilling from Mathura
This is what makes Paramparik Karigar's upcoming exhibition important. The exhibition will display creations of 30 folk artists from 14 different Indian states, all showing in Mumbai for the first time.
Look out for Lalita Vokil's intricately embroidered depiction of stories from the life of Krishna in Chamba rumals (gigantic handkerchiefs), an art native to Himachal Pradesh. Anu Chowdhury Sorabjee, a committee member with the Paramparik Karigar organisation, is all praise for the artist. "She combines the skill of a miniature painter with that of a master embroiderer." 
Kauna mat weave from Manipur
Sorabjee adds that they will also display Bastar wooden sculptures created by Pandurang Ramdeo. This is an extremely old art form that is rare to come across, since most artists from the region now work with wrought iron and stone.
The exhibition sees a strange mix of tradition and modernity. While the Patua painted pots depict traditional themes, some scrolls from Bengal present new stories, like that of Japan's tsunami in the region's traditional style of painting.
Some works are path breaking in their own way. For instance, Gond tribals, who traditionally paint on their hut walls are now transferring their art onto canvas, so it can be preserved for posterity.
Also on display are the works of Thewa jewellers. While the craft has been passed down over generations, young craftsmen are tough to come by.
"We are hopeful that the response to the exhibition will encourage them to continue practising their art," says an optimistic Sorabjee.
On: April 13 to 17, Coomaraswamy Hall, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (formerly Prince of Wales Museum), Fort.
Call: 22844484
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