Learn more about tribal communities in West Bengal

Tip | Santal Music: A Study in Pattern and Process of Cultural Persistence – A detailed study by Onkar Prasad

The present in-depth study by Dr. Onkar Prasad of Santal Music in the context of socio-cultural life of Santals is the outcome of extensive field work. […] It highlights Santals’ organic relationship with [their] instruments looking upon them as living beings and a means to establish communication with non-living entities. […] [They] do not view their … Read more

“Indigenous Wisdom”: Webinar on the occasion of Indigenous Day – West Bengal

Information and the link about the on-line discussion scheduled on 9th August 2020.  To celebrate World Indigenous Day, Kolkata Centre for Creativity in association with Museum of Santal Culture, Bishnubati will initiate pertinent dialogues on India’s indigenous tribal communities. It is impressive how they have been carrying with them, through the intergenerational exchange, wisdom for thousands … Read more

Video | Marriage customs of the Santals: A large mural created by village artists to express their cultural identity – West Bengal

Marriage Reception A Santal marriage takes five days and involves various, often complex, rituals. On the day of the Gidi-chumara (Marriage Reception) the women arrive to bless the bride and groom with grass and grains of rice which are kept in a basket. The high wooden turmeric crusher called akhur (on the right) indicates that … Read more

Learn from “insiders” to fight misconceptions: Ideas and practices worth sharing

There’s much to learn from the positive contributions made by tribal communities on a daily basis. To start with, let’s learn from insiders and others who have dedicated their lives to ensuring that a precious heritage will continue to make a difference to people from all backgrounds – all over India and even beyond: “[I]t … Read more