By Anirban Dasgupta
In the heartland of India today, nestled amidst the diverse and vibrant culture of India, lies a community rich in tradition and resilience – the Dusadh (Paswan) community. For centuries, these communities particularly the women had been at the receiving end of age-old man-made rules imposed by upper castes.
One of many such age-old impositions was prohibiting women from adorning themselves with jewellery. However, rather than succumbing to this unjust restriction, the women of this community found a unique way to express their identity and pride – through the art of tattoos.
Tattoos have long been recognized as a form of self-expression and a reflection of one’s personal history or cultural background. For the women of the Dusadh community, tattoos serve as more than just a decorative art form; they are a symbol of resistance and defiance against the oppressive norms dictated by society. By adorning their bodies with intricate and meaningful tattoos, these women proudly display their heritage and challenge the societal conventions that seek to confine them.
The Dusadh women’s tattoos are a manifestation of their suppressed desires, a silent rebellion against societal norms and a celebration of their uniqueness. These tattoos serve as visual narrations of their life experiences, struggles, and triumphs. Each design etched onto their skin holds a story; it is a testament to their resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Another significant aspect of the life of Paswans is their inspiration from nature. Forbidden from worshipping mainstream Hindu deities, the nature that surrounds them becomes their muse. The women draw inspiration from the flora and fauna of their environment, incorporating intricate patterns of flowers, vines, birds, and animals into their tattoo designs. These nature-inspired tattoos are not only visually stunning but also serve as a reflection of their deep-rooted connection with the natural world.
The canvas on which these drawings come to life is equally fascinating. The Dusadh women utilize unconventional materials such as cow dung, bamboo, straw, and palm leaves to create their tattoos. These materials, readily available in their everyday lives, showcase their resourcefulness and ingenuity. The women masterfully work with these natural materials, transforming them into tools for their artistic expression.
Beyond the art of tattoos, the Dusadh women’s lifestyle is one intricately woven with tradition and communal living. Their daily lives are often centered around their families and communities, where they play crucial roles in preserving their cultural heritage. From traditional cuisines to folk dances and songs, the Dusadh women actively participate in preserving their traditions and passing them down to future generations. Food is a vital aspect of their community, symbolizing unity and togetherness. Traditional Dusadh cuisine comprises a variety of dishes, including dal, roti, and sabzi, cooked with love and shared among family members. Through the act of cooking and communal dining, the Dusadh women not only sustain their families but also reinforce their collective identity.
The story of the women of the Dusadh community is one of resilience, strength, and cultural pride. They have transformed their bodies into living canvases, etching their stories onto their skin and defying oppressive societal norms. Their tattoos not only serve as an expression of their identity but also as a reminder of their unique place in the world. As they celebrate their heritage and build bridges between tradition and modernity, these women continue to inspire generations to come with their art and lives.
In the year 1979, an esteemed German anthropologist named Erika Hoser embarked on a remarkable journey to uplift the spirit and empower the women of the Dusadh community. Recognizing their innate artistic talent, Erika encouraged these women to explore their skills and express themselves through the medium of handmade papers. Little did she know that this initiative would give birth to a magnificent art form known as Gonda painting, which not only gained global recognition but also became a source of newfound identity for the women of the community.
The creation and appreciation of Gonda art is a testament to the defiance and indomitable spirit of the Dusadh women. For far too long, they had been subjected to relentless attempts to suppress their morale and existence. However, through their artistic creations, these women found a medium to fight back and assert their presence in society. Each stroke of the paintbrush on the handmade papers told a unique story of resilience and determination, showcasing their ability to rise above adversity.
Gonda painting has become a magnificent tapestry of colors, depicting the rich cultural heritage of the Dusadh community. The artwork is characterized by intricate motifs and patterns, representing elements of nature as well as daily life experiences. The women skillfully utilize vibrant hues, delicate brushwork, and meticulous attention to detail to breathe life into their creations. These paintings have now become a source of inspiration and admiration for art lovers around the world.
Through Gonda art, the Dusadh community has not only found a platform to showcase their talent but also a means to reclaim their identities. The evolution of Gonda art is a testament to the transformative power of artistic expression. What began as a simple initiative by Erika Hoser to encourage the Dusadh women has now become a global phenomenon. Today, Gonda paintings are cherished and sought after by art collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. The art form has not only promoted economic empowerment for the women of the community but has also played a significant role in preserving their cultural heritage.
The story of Gonda art is a story of triumph over adversity, where creativity became a weapon of resistance. The Dusadh women, once marginalized and silenced, have found their voice through this expressive art form. Their journey from struggle to empowerment serves as an inspiration to all, reminding us of the enduring strength and resilience of the human spirit.
Some additional Information about Gond Art :
Theme & Design
The themes and motifs of Gond painting are drawn from local flora and fauna, deities, and urban culture. The theme of paintings is mostly drawn from folktales and Gond mythology therefore these paintings are not mere decorations but also instant expressions of their religious sentiments and devotions. Gond paintings mainly depict the following subjects:
Pictures of peacocks, birds, crabs, mythical beasts, lizards, lions, tigers, deer, snakes, wild boars, cows, monkeys, elephants, horses, fish, etc.
Mahua Tree as Tree of Life. Mahua flowers, fruits, seeds, and leaves are used for many purposes by the Gond tribe.
Myths, legends, and aspects of the daily life of Gond people.
Hindu gods such as Lord Shiva, Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesha, etc.
Local deities like Phulvari Devi (Goddess Kali), Jalharin Devi (River Goddess), Marahi Devi, etc.
Some colours and their natural sources are mentioned below.
Black: Black colour is made from charcoal.
Yellow: Yellow colour is made from ramraj soil.
White: White colour is made from chui soil.
Red: The red colour is obtained from geru soil.
Green: Light green colour is made from cow dung and dark green colour is made from bean leaves.
Gond artists are now using synthetic colours such as acrylic colours, poster colours and oil paints as they are readily available in the market.
Photo source : Madhya Pradesh Tourism, Asha Thadani
