Sohrai Art

Sohrai Art: A Beautiful Tradition from Jharkhand

Sohrai Art is a unique wall painting tradition practiced by tribal women in Jharkhand. Recently, it was highlighted at Kala Utsav 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the President of India praised it as the “soul of India.”

What is Sohrai Art?

Sohrai Art is created by the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon tribes of Jharkhand. Women paint on the mud walls of their homes using natural colors and bamboo sticks. It is done mainly during the harvest festival of Diwali to thank nature, honor animals, and celebrate farming and womanhood.

Art Style and Materials

The paintings show animals, birds, trees, and village life, symbolizing the tribe’s close connection with nature. Artists use red ochre, white clay, black manganese, and yellow soil. They do not use brushes — only bamboo twigs, cloth rags, or chewed sticks.

Recognition at Kala Utsav 2025

Ten women artists from Hazaribagh district showcased their talent at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The President interacted with them and admired their dedication. IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts) played a key role in supporting and promoting their participation.

Cultural Importance

Sohrai Art reflects sustainability, spirituality, and tribal traditions. It is passed down from mother to daughter and is a symbol of identity and pride for the tribal communities.

Sohrai Art is a living heritage of India. With national platforms like Kala Utsav supporting it, this beautiful tradition gets the recognition it truly deserves and inspires the next generation to keep it alive.