Wood has played an important role in the architectural development of the Indian civilization. It was one of the most ancient building materials for public and stately structural designs, traces of which can be found in the remains of early empires. Since then, the craft has evolved into many forms, catering to the various social, religious and functional needs of the people. Woodcraft of Bastar is famous for its beautiful and intricate style. Some of the well-know products of the region are wooden sculptures, combs, tobacco pouches and masks.
It is believed that the some of the early structures like temporary shelters for humans; were made out of tree branches and leaves. Forest and it’s by products have always played a pivotal role in tribal culture. From the decorated wooden pillars in house, to the comb full of beautifully inscribed motifs, wood has shown its presence in the tribal society since ages. In Ghotuls, the youth dormitory of the tribals, girls and boys used to dance around carved wooden pillar. Musical instruments, wooden headrests, drums and dancing stilts were also made of wood. Boys used to gifts gorgeously carved wooden combs as tokens of love to the girls of their choice. Many old temples of the region display highly decorative woodwork. Skillfully crafted designs of various animals and humans can be seen on its door panel and frames, pillars, roofs and inside the shrine. Some tribes of the region build wooden and stone pillars in the memory of dead. These pillars are decorated with detailed motifs describing the life of the deceased. The best example of existence of the craft in tribal culture can be seen during the festival of Dussehra, which is the main festival of Bastar region. The chariot carrying Danteshwari mata is the largest single piece of woodcraft, measuring approximately 11 x 11 meters in dimensions. Wooden axes and spears play a pivotal role in the rituals of the tribes.
Forests constitute more than 75% of the total area of Bastar region. It is full of trees like shisham, sal and teak. Initially the wooden carved products used to cater to the personal and social needs of tribes. It gradually made its way to the local bazaars and then to the bigger craft markets. Large-scale wooden sculptures and relief carvings in wooden panels have become identity of the woodwork of Bastar.
To see the official Dsource design resource on woodcraft documented by me, click the link here.
Also here is a very short video capturing wonderful sounds created by the bastar flute.
Shutter Keeda 