The Sankala Foundation, in collaboration with the National Tiger Conservation Authority, has recently launched a captivating visual art book titled Tigers and Tribes – A Silent Conversation, authored by Mr. Bharat Lal and Dr. S.P. Yadav. This stunning publication celebrates the deep, interwoven relationship between tigers and the tribal communities living around India's tiger reserves. Featuring select paintings from the Silent Conversation: From Margins to the Centre exhibition held in November 2023, the book beautifully captures the essence of this bond, offering a window into the coexistence of wildlife and indigenous cultures.
Tribal Communities and Art of Uttarakhand: Excerpts from the book
Uttarakhand’s rich cultural texture is woven by communities like the Garhwalis, Kumaonis, Jaunsaris, Bhots or Bhotias, and Gujjars. A very popular ritual folk art is Aipan, executed by skilled women artists from Kumaon. The canvas, whether it is floors, walls, thresholds, or pots, is first prepared with a mixture of clay, cow dung, and straw. This surface is then coated with red clay, which when dry serves as the base. Using rice paste, the artist draws freehand. The art brings unity of aesthetics and Nature.
The Van Gujjars, semi-nomadic pastoralists, and the Bhotis with their Tibetan Buddhist influence, are integral to the cultural fabric of Corbett reserve. The Van Gujjars, living in the upper Himalayan regions during summers and lower Gangetic plains during winters, communicate their cultural practices through traditional songs, stories, and customs. Another tribal community, the Raubika, relies on agriculture and forest resources for sustenance. The forest department is active in engaging local communities and providing them with alternative livelihoods. Many men and women work as tour guides, drivers, and forest guards.
Deepa Negi (from the Pahadi community), who lives close to Corbett Tiger Reserve, created an Aipan on cloth. She shared that women from tribal communities are often part of self-help groups. These groups enable them to draw loans to use during an emergency. Despite the challenges, they play an active role in preserving the ecology of the area.
If you'd like to learn more or purchase the book, you can find it here.
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