Crafts of Jharkhand - 2 | Jharkhand State (JPSC) PSC: Preparation - JPSC (Jharkhand) PDF Download

Godna

• Godna (tattooing) is a significant cultural ornament among the tribes of Jharkhand, representing their identity and ancient traditions. The practice of tattooing is rooted in religious beliefs, the longing for compassion, and human aspirations. This tradition continues to be prevalent among many tribes in Jharkhand and throughout India.
• Tattooing involves the process of puncturing the skin with a needle tip and applying vegetable juices like those from beans or dhatura mixed with oil and soot to create the design. Popular tattoo designs include geometric shapes, the moon, the sun, and motifs on the hands and feet. While tattooing is especially common among women, men also participate in this tradition.
• Tribes believe that tattoos serve as a witness to one's earthly life and accompany the individual into the afterlife. These tattoos often signify tribal or caste identity, but over time, the tradition has evolved to symbolize human emotions, aspirations, and beauty.

Ledra Shilp

• From prehistoric times to modern times, women have been the primary creators and preservers of various crafts. Especially in the realm of folk arts and crafts, women in society continue to play a crucial role. In the Hazaribagh area of Jharkhand, rural women are the main practitioners of the Ladara craft. Ladara refers to torn and old clothes, which are transformed into beautiful pieces used to cover children and the elderly. Kathari is a modern and popular form of this traditional craft.
• In Ladara craft, pieces of torn and old clothes are sewn together like a quilt. The stitching is done with locally made yarn, and the designs are based on imagination. However, studies of these designs reveal similarities to those found in the ancient cave paintings of the region. This connection suggests that the traditions of Kohbhar, Sohrai, and Ladara crafts have roots in prehistoric times.
• The preparation of Ladara typically involves using old saris or small fabric pieces. Four or five pieces are laid side by side on the floor and sewn along the edges. The number of pieces can vary based on availability. The fabric is then coated with a solution made from turmeric, vermicelli, or soot, and desired designs are drawn on it. These designs are stitched with threads of different colors, making the patterns visible on the fabric. Finer designs are added with additional threads, gradually transforming the piece into a vibrant quilt.

Mukhawta Shilp

• The Chhau dance style of the Saraikela-Kharsawan region in Jharkhand is world-renowned. A distinctive feature of this dance is the use of masks, which are crafted meticulously to represent various characters. The process of creating these masks is detailed and skillful.
• First, impurities are removed from the clay, known locally as "chitamati." In this wet clay, the basic features such as eyes, nose, lips, and other facial details are sculpted. Ash-powder is then sprinkled on the clay model. Several layers of paper, usually newspaper, are applied to the clay model using glue, followed by a layer of thin cotton cloth, and then another layer of paper. The mask is left to dry thoroughly.
• Once dry, a solution of chitamati is applied to any parts that may have dried unevenly. As the mask begins to harden, final touches are made to refine the features, using tools made from guava or tamarind wood. The mask is then painted in various colors to match the characters they represent. For instance, Shiva's mask is painted bright, Krishna's mask is sky blue, Parvati's is pink, the moon is dazzling white, and the peacock mask is either pink or blue.
• Mask-making for Chhau dance is primarily practiced in the Saraikela-Kharsawan and Singhbhum districts of Jharkhand. These masks are known for their vibrant and dynamic appearance, making them not only essential to the performance but also a significant cultural artifact.

Prastar Shilp

• The history of stone craft in Jharkhand dates back to the Stone Age, with the region's rich forests and hills providing ample resources. Early inhabitants of Jharkhand recognized the value of stone and began using it to create various tools and objects. By examining the properties of different stones, they developed specialized skills to craft items based on the unique characteristics of each type.
• Today, stone craft continues to thrive in Jharkhand, particularly in areas like Ghatshila, Sarikeela, Chandil, Palamu, and Dumka. Craftsmen in these regions produce a wide range of stone items, including religious statues, animal figures, pestles, and grinding stones. Notably, ancient black stone statues have been unearthed and preserved from sites such as Tanginath, Chandil, and Singhbhum districts, reflecting the region's long-standing tradition of stone artistry.

Mrin Shilp

• Music and dance hold significant importance in the life of Jharkhand's residents. In this region, social life is deeply intertwined with dance and music. Various musical instruments have been used in Jharkhand since ancient times, and they play a crucial role in festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies. 
• Dance, song, and instrumental music are central to the culture of Jharkhand, reflecting the natural rhythm of its people. Key folk instruments of the area include the Kendra, Tohila, Bhuang, Flute, Sanai, Nagada, Mandar, and Dhasa, among others.