Dhokra: A Traditional Metal Craft in India
Author : Bindu Seth and Neena Thakur
Abstract :
This paper discusses the historical perspective of the traditional metal casting technique of the “Dhokra” handicraft. It is based on secondary sources such as published papers, books on the metal craft, and print media. For the first time, this technique was observed in the Indus Valley civilization when a dancing girl figurine in bronze from Mohenjo-Daro was discovered. This figurine was made by lost wax technique (Cire Perdue technique). Since then, it continued in some of the Indian tribes i.e. Gadwa, and Gonds. Ghasi and Chitraghasi, Damar Malhor, etc. who are continuing the practising of the Dhokra craft. It is prevalent in the states of Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Telangana. The Dhokra craft is known as a non-ferrous metal casting process. The purpose of the paper is to understand this specific metal craft which has a significant position in tribal communities. The age-old tribal tradition have very often followed this metal craft. It presents the social, economic, and religious aspects of the tribal societies.
Keywords :
Dhokra craft, lost wax technique (Cire Perdue), Tribal, Metal casting
