Gist of Kurukshetra June 2024 Issue: Tribal Art and Culture

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Innovative Science Projects to Preserve Tribal Culture
2. Theyyam - The Tribal Cultural Dance
3. Tribal Culture - The Potential for Global Representation
4. Tribal Folk Dances of Northeast India

1. Innovative Science Projects to Preserve Tribal Culture

Introduction

• In the diverse landscape of tribal communities, innovative science projects are emerging as crucial tools for preserving indigenous heritage. In an era dominated by globalization and modernization, these projects represent resilience and hope for sustaining age-old customs and traditions.

Issues

• Cultural Erosion: Rapid globalization and modernization threaten traditional tribal cultures.
• Environmental Degradation: Challenges such as deforestation and climate change impact tribal livelihoods and cultural practices.
• Socio-economic Marginalization: Tribal communities often face marginalization and lack access to mainstream development opportunities.

Significance

• Cultural Preservation: Science projects offer avenues to document and preserve indigenous knowledge systems and cultural practices.
• Community Empowerment: These initiatives empower tribal communities economically and socially.
• Environmental Conservation: Projects integrate traditional ecological knowledge with modern conservation practices, promoting sustainable resource management.

Solutions

• Documentation and Preservation: Initiatives involve documenting traditional practices, medicinal knowledge, oral histories, and cultural rituals.
• Technological Integration: Use of advanced techniques like remote sensing, GIS, and 3D modelling for conservation and restoration of cultural heritage sites.
• Skill Development: Programs focus on skill enhancement among tribal youth and artisans, promoting entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.

Efforts and Initiatives

Department of Science & Technology (DST) Initiatives:

• Supports projects documenting indigenous knowledge and conserving cultural heritage sites.
• Promotes interdisciplinary research integrating traditional ecological knowledge with modern science.
• Schemes like SATHI and SEED fund grassroots innovations and empower tribal communities.

North East Centre for Technology Application & Reach (NECTAR):

• Develops technologies like bamboo-based products and promotes sustainable practices.
• Initiatives include bamboo-based water towers and low-cost water treatment plants benefiting tribal communities.
• Skills development and employment generation through bamboo-related industries.

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Initiatives:

• Implements projects under the National Mission for Green India integrating traditional ecological knowledge with biodiversity conservation.
• Supports community-based forest management and climate change adaptation measures tailored for tribal communities.

Image: Flute technology of culm cutting or stem setting technique which enables fast regeneration of bamboo

Image: NECTAR has extended its support to bamboo furniture

Conclusion

• In conclusion, innovative science projects are pivotal in preserving tribal culture by leveraging traditional knowledge alongside modern scientific approaches. These initiatives not only safeguard cultural heritage but also foster sustainable development and environmental conservation in tribal regions.

2. Theyyam – The Tribal Cultural Dance

Introduction: Theyyam, also known as Kaliyattam or Theyyamkettu, is a vibrant ritualistic art form indigenous to northern Kerala, specifically the Kolathunadu area comprising Kasaragod, Kannur, Wayanad, and Kozhikode districts. It is deeply rooted in ancient traditions dating back over a millennium, embodying the cultural, spiritual, and socio-economic fabric of rural communities.

Image: Natural Makeup, Attire, and Traditional Instruments Worn by Artists

1. Historical and Cultural Context

• Origin and Evolution: Theyyam traces its origins to ancient tribal rituals and animistic beliefs prevalent in Kerala’s rural hinterlands. Over centuries, it has evolved into a complex ritual art form, integrating elements of dance, music, mythology, and folklore.
• Geographical Spread: Predominantly practised in northern Kerala, it also finds resonance in the Tulunadu region of Karnataka under the name ‘Bhuta Kola’, indicating cultural exchanges across regional boundaries.

2. Spiritual and Ritualistic Dimensions

• Role and Significance: Theyyam serves as a conduit for spiritual expression, with performers embodying deities, spirits, or ancestral heroes through elaborate rituals, vibrant costumes, and frenzied dance movements.
• Community Cohesion: It fosters communal solidarity by reflecting and reinforcing the ethos, values, and communal bonds prevalent in agrarian societies.

3. Socio-economic Impact

• Livelihoods and Economy: Theyyam contributes significantly to the local economy through tourism and cultural industries, providing livelihoods for performers, musicians, costume makers, and artisans.
• Cultural Preservation: It plays a pivotal role in preserving tribal cultural heritage, transmitting traditional knowledge, and sustaining local handicrafts and artistic practices.

4. Ecological and Environmental Context

• Sacred Groves (Kaavu): Ritual performances often take place in sacred groves, serving as biodiversity hotspots and cultural sanctuaries that reinforce the spiritual connection between indigenous communities and their natural surroundings.
• Ecological Wisdom: Theyyam narratives incorporate ecological knowledge and sustainable practices, promoting harmony with nature and advocating for environmental conservation.

Significance

1. Cultural Heritage and Identity

• Theyyam embodies the rich tapestry of Kerala’s cultural heritage, preserving oral traditions, myths, and legends that narrate historical events, migrations, and societal transformations.
• It acts as a repository of local wisdom and serves as a platform for the assertion of cultural identity and resilience against dominant narratives.

2. Contemporary Relevance

• Theyyam continues to evolve, adapting to contemporary stages and venues while retaining its authenticity and cultural integrity.
• It has gained recognition nationally and internationally, symbolizing India’s diverse folk traditions and contributing to global cultural exchange and understanding.

Conclusion

• In conclusion, Theyyam stands as a testament to Kerala’s cultural richness and spiritual depth. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it serves as a dynamic cultural phenomenon that bridges the past with the present, offering invaluable insights into rural life, ecological stewardship, and the enduring resilience of indigenous communities.

3. Tribal Culture – The Potential for Global Representation

Introduction: India’s tribal art, encompassing diverse expressions like painting, weaving, and dance, serves as a vital link to ancient cultural traditions. Rooted in nature and community life, these art forms reflect sustainable practices and philosophical beliefs, emphasizing ecological balance and coexistence.

Rich Diversity and Artistic Expressions

• India’s tribal art reflects a tapestry of cultural diversity, with each community contributing unique artistic traditions. These include painting, weaving, pottery, metalwork, woodwork, music, and dance, offering insights into India’s ancient cultural past.

Significance of Tribal Art

• Tribal art serves as an umbilical cord to ancestral legacies, deeply intertwined with nature, spiritual beliefs, and community living. Art forms like Warli paintings and bamboo crafts from Tripura illustrate profound interactions with the environment and cultural ethos.

Symbolism and Connection to Nature

• Tribal art is rich with symbolic motifs depicting natural elements and tribal myths. For instance, Bhil and Gond paintings use natural pigments to narrate stories and celebrate nature’s bounty, ensuring cultural continuity through generations.

Music and Dance

• Music and dance are integral to tribal celebrations, rituals, and cultural expression. Santhal drumming, Bhil tribal dances, and Naga folk songs exemplify vibrant traditions that transmit historical narratives and community identity.

Philosophical Underpinnings

• Tribal art embodies ecological philosophies, emphasizing sustainability and minimal environmental impact. These practices offer global lessons in eco-friendly living, highlighting the harmonious relationship between tribal communities and their natural surroundings.

Intellectual Property and Ethical Tourism

• Safeguarding tribal art through intellectual property rights and ethical tourism ensures cultural integrity and economic benefits for tribal communities. Initiatives like geographical indication tags protect art forms like Warli paintings, promoting fair representation and economic empowerment.

Image: Tribal Warli Painting

Image: Gond Painting

Conclusion

• Tribal art in India not only preserves cultural diversity but also enriches global cultural dialogue on sustainability and ethical living. By fostering awareness, protecting intellectual property, and promoting ethical tourism, tribal art can continue to thrive as a cornerstone of India’s cultural heritage and a beacon of global cultural sustainability.

4. Tribal Folk Dances of Northeast India

Introduction: India’s Northeast region, known for its rich cultural diversity, hosts over two hundred tribes and ethnic communities, each with unique festivals, music, and dance traditions. Folk dances play a central role in these cultures, showcasing their heritage, traditional attire, musical instruments, and deep connection to nature.

Arunachal Pradesh

Rikham Pada

• Description: A medley of dances and songs performed by Nishyie people during community festivals.
• Attire: Elaborate cane headgears, antique waist-belt of beaten bell metal.
• Significance: Honors gods, ancestors, and narrates love stories.

Ponung

• Description: Solely performed by women during Solung festival to ensure a good harvest.
• Attire: Gale (traditional skirt), Galup (blouse), traditional ornaments.
• Significance: Symbolizes community unity and agricultural prosperity.

Daminda

• Description: Marks the beginning and end of Dree festival, depicting traditional agriculture.
• Performance: Women dancers showcase intricate footwork and hand gestures.
• Significance: Celebrates agricultural practices and community bonding.

Assam

Bagrumba

• Description: Performed by young Bodo women in traditional dokhona and phali attire during spring.
• Instruments: Kham (drum), serja (string instrument), siphung (flute).
• Significance: Prays for community prosperity and well-being.

Gumrag Soman

• Description: Integral to Ali-a-ye Ligang festival, featuring young men and women dancing to Oinitom songs.
• Attire: Traditional mibu galug, gonro ugon for men; ege, ribi for women.
• Significance: Celebrates spring sowing with music and dance.

Meghalaya

Nongkrem Dance

• Description: Performed by young Khasi women during Nongkrem festival, dedicated to U Lei Shyllong.
• Attire: Colorful traditional jewellery, rhythmic movements to drum and flute beats.
• Significance: Reveres indigenous deity and promotes cultural identity.

Wangala (Hundred Drums Dance)

• Description: Garo community dance during Wangala festival, celebrating end of toil and praying for good harvest.
• Instruments: Drums, gongs, flutes including buffalo horn flute.
• Significance: Communal celebration of agricultural bounty.

Mizoram

Cheraw (Bamboo Dance)

• Description: Oldest Mizo dance, involves men holding bamboo poles while women step in rhythmic patterns.
• Symbolism: Imitates bird and tree movements, showcasing agility and grace.
• Significance: Celebrates communal joy and agility.

Khuallam

• Description: Dance of the Guest performed during Khuangchawi ceremony.
• Attire: Puandum dress with red and green stripes.
• Significance: Welcomes guests with traditional dance and music.

Manipur

Luivat Pheizak

• Description: Tangkhul tribe dance depicting cultivation stages and tribal lifestyle during traditional festivals.
• Instruments: Phung (drum), Tala (trumpet), Paren (bamboo pipe), Sipa (flute).
• Significance: Celebrates agricultural cycles and community spirit.

Shim Lam and Kit Lam

• Description: Kabui tribe dances; Shim Lam imitates flying insect movements, Kit Lam imitates cricket movements.
• Significance: Connected to Gang-Ngai and harvest festivals, respectively.

Nagaland

Sovi Kehu

• Description: Angami tribe community dance symbolizing unity and cultural pride.
• Movements: Circular motion with rhythmic leaps and ululations.
• Significance: Celebrates community harmony and cultural unity.

Yimdongsu Tsungsang

• Description: Ao tribe dance showcasing heritage and spirituality, featuring intricate traditional attire and dao.
• Significance: Reveres tribal identity and spiritual values.

Image: Hornbill Festival, Nagaland

Tripura

Hozagiri Dance

• Description: Reang tribe dance depicting the Jhum cultivation cycle during Hozagiri festival.
• Instruments: Kham (drum), Sumui (flute).
• Significance: Celebrates agricultural traditions and fertility rituals.

Garia Dance

• Description: Jamatia and Kalai tribes dance during Garia or Shiva puja, circling a symbolic Lord Garia.
• Significance: Promotes communal harmony and religious fervour.

Conclusion

• Tribal folk dances of Northeast India not only preserve ancient traditions but also embody cultural pride, community unity, and reverence for nature and spirituality. These dances, with their vibrant attire, rhythmic music, and symbolic movements, reflect the deep-rooted connection of tribal communities to their heritage and environment.