Description

About Dhokra Craft

Dhokra Craft is a type of metal craft that is made by the tribal artisans of India using a technique called Dhokra or Dokra. Dhokra is an ancient method of making metal sculptures by using wax casting( lost wax method ). The process involves creating a clay mould around a wax model, which is then heated to melt the wax and leave a hollow space. Molten metal, usually brass or bronze, is then poured into the mould and allowed to cool. The clay mould is then broken and the metal sculpture is revealed. Dhokra craft is known for its intricate details and unique designs.

How Old the craft is?

Dhokra is a form of metal art that has a long and rich history in India. It is one of the oldest techniques of metal casting, dating back to over 4,000 years ago during Harappan civilization (Harappa – Mohenjo-Daro). Dhokra craft is made by using the lost-wax casting method, which involves creating a mould of clay and wax, melting the wax, and pouring molten metal into the hollow space. Dhokra craft is known for its intricate and unique designs, often depicting tribal life, animals, gods, and goddesses. Dhokra craft is not limited to one region or tribe in India. It is also practised by other tribal communities in Central and Eastern India, such as the Gonds, the Bhils, the Baigas, the Murias, and the Ghadwas. Each community has its own style and variation of Dhokra craft, influenced by their local culture and environment. Dhokra craft can be found in various forms, such as wall hangings, figurines, jewellery, utensils, lamps, and more.

About this craft

Dhokra art finds an unique expression in the form of the Dhokra Ekchala Durga family. This exquisite piece of traditional handicraft beautifully encapsulates the essence of Hindu mythology, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. The Dhokra Ekchala Durga family typically consists of five deities: Goddess Durga, her children Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya and Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati.

These deities are commonly depicted together, symbolizing the divine power, wisdom, and protection within a single composition. The central figure of the Dhokra Ekchala Durga family, Goddess Durga, is a powerful and revered deity in Hinduism. She is portrayed as a warrior goddess riding on a lion, symbolizing her courage and valor. With multiple arms that hold various weapons, Durga represents the divine force that overcomes evil and protects her devotees.

Her presence is associated with the triumph of good over evil, and she is particularly venerated during the festival of Durga Puja in West Bengal and other parts of India. The term “Ekchala” in the name of this composition refers to the single background structure or platform that unites these deities. This distinctive feature allows for a more compact and visually appealing representation, with the deities situated together on a single base.