Exploring the Rich Heritage of Kavad Art in Rajasthan

 

Exploring the Rich Heritage of Kavad Art in Rajasthan

 

Introduction

Rajasthan, the land of vibrant colours and rich cultural heritage, is home to many traditional art forms that have withstood the test of time. The state is home to many art forms famous for their painting style. One such captivating art form is the Kavad art from Bassi village in Chittorgarh.

It is a unique storytelling craft that holds deep cultural and religious significance. In this article, I will explore the fascinating world of Kavad art, delving into its history, cultural relevance, craftsmanship, challenges, and current status.

 

History of the Kavad Art

Kavad art has its roots in the ancient storytelling traditions of Rajasthan. . The word 'Kavad' comes from the Hindi word 'Kinwad,' meaning a door. In the past, Kavad was used as a portable shrine or temple by travelling storytellers called 'Bhopas' and 'Bhopis.'

These storytellers would travel from village to village, carrying the Kavad on their shoulders, narrating stories of Hindu mythology, folklore, and historical events to the local people.

 

Cultural and Religious Significance

The Kavad art is deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious fabric of Rajasthan. It serves as a visual medium for storytelling, preserving and passing on traditional tales, moral values, and historical narratives from one generation to the next. The intricate narratives depicted on the Kavad often revolve around Hindu deities, epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, local legends, and the heroic exploits of Rajput warriors. In the past decade, innovative themes have been introduced to keep pace with the contemporary world and its demands.

 

Wood Used to Make the Craft

The craftsmanship involved in creating the Kavad art is a meticulous process that requires skilled artisans. The primary wood used to make a Kavad is seasoned Sheesham or Neem wood, known for its durability and fine grain texture. The artisans carefully carve and assemble the wooden panels to form a compact, multi-tiered structure that can be folded and unfolded like a series of interconnected doors.

Colours and Painting Style

The Kavad art is renowned for its vibrant colours and intricate paintings. In the past, natural pigments sourced from minerals, plants, and stones were used to create a vivid palette. Nowadays, synthetic colours bought from the market are also used. The colours are first mixed with resin (adhesive) before being applied.

Unlike normal drawings, in the Kavad art, the pictures are painted directly onto the wood without a preliminary sketch. The primary colours used are red, light blue, green, white, black, and yellow.

The paintings on the Kavad typically feature intricate details, geometric patterns, floral motifs, and scenes depicting mythological stories. The painting style is characterized by bold outlines, contrasting colours, and a narrative sequence that unfolds as one explores each panel of the Kavad.

 

Challenges Faced

Despite its rich cultural heritage and artistic value, Kavad art faces several challenges in the modern era. The rise of mass-produced goods, changing consumer preferences, and limited exposure to traditional art forms among the younger generation pose significant threats to the sustainability of Kavad craftsmanship. Additionally, the advent of various media for knowledge and entertainment has greatly diminished the value of Kavad.

Once a popular and revered art form, it is now struggling to survive. However, artists from the Suthar community of Bassi village are determined to protect this age-old art form, which is not only their tradition but also their means of livelihood.

 

Current Situation and Chief Artisans

Efforts are underway to revive and promote the Kavad art through various initiatives, including workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations with designers and artists. Government and non-government organizations are also stepping in to provide platforms for Kavad artists to showcase their work.

A Rajasthani Kavad showcasing major festivals of India was installed in the new Sansad Bhawan. For the installation called 'Parv' (festival), a Kavad was specially designed and created for the Shilp Deergha of the New Parliament Building. For this project, 10 prominent festivals of India were chosen, and 10 talented artists were handpicked to bring them to life. Since India celebrated its 75th year of independence as Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, it is represented here as the paramount festival. In this Kavad, the central panel features an Amrit Kalash made in the traditional Tanjore style, combining art and craft with elaborate relief work and embedded stones.

As for individual efforts, chief artisans from Bassi village like Shri Dwarka Prasad Ji and Shri Satyanarayan Suthar Ji are among the stalwarts dedicated to preserving and advancing the legacy of Kavad art. They are not only known for their exceptional craftsmanship but also for their innovative approaches to keeping this tradition alive, such as incorporating contemporary themes and conducting training sessions for the younger generation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kavad art stands as a testament to Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy. Its intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colours, and narrative depth continue to captivate art enthusiasts and scholars alike. By understanding and appreciating the history, cultural significance, and challenges faced by Kavad art, we can contribute to its preservation and ensure that this timeless art form continues to thrive for generations to come.

- Aditi Jain