Ancestors, social values and clan practices: Cultural identity transmitted through the weaves of the North-East – Seven Sister States

Folklore, myths and handloom Hidden within the colour, weave and design of tribal textiles are many legends If you were to look beyond the visible landscape of a weave, you would find myriad stories hidden in the colours and designs—tales about human creation, magical deities and kindred forest spirits. These patterns offer tangible evidence of legends … Read more

Exceptionally beautiful performance by Bastar music and dance band – Chhattisgarh

Lively: Bastar Band from Chhattisgarh | Video >> Bastar Band, a music and dance band from Bastar, Chhattisgarh, which was formed two years back aims at taking different tribal dance forms and music to the doorsteps of the urban folk. The band is touring different parts of the country in an attempt to showcase the beauty … Read more

Rebels in the Amsterdam ‘Artis Library’ – Netherlands

By Mieke Beumer In 2002 the Indian government issued a stamp commemorating Sido Murmu and Kanhu Murmu for their bravery. The brothers had led an insurrection on June 30 1855, which is still celebrated annually as the Santhal Hul. The Santhals (Santals) are a large ‘tribal’ community spread across northeastern India and neighbouring regions, notably … Read more

“Assimilating the tribal richness”: Five-day National Tribal Dance Festival in Raipur – Chhattisgarh

The three-day National Tribal Dance festival organised in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, was an occasion for the tribal community from across the world to showcase their rich tribal heritage. Speaking at the valedictory function, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said that there is uniformity in the dance, music and traditional instruments of all tribal communities in the … Read more

eLearning | “Cadence and Counterpoint: Documenting Santal Musical Traditions” – A virtual exhibition on Google Cultural Institute

Source: courtesy Dr. Ruchira Ghose (Co-Curator, New Delhi, 21 January 2016); for photo and detailed credits, please check the multimedia production available at Google Arts and Culture here >> [Bold typeface added above for emphasis] Tip: view the actual slideshow, watch a video on Santal puppetry, listen to a rare 1914 Santali recording and read the full story