The Rhythmic Tribal Culture

Bastar, in Chattisgarh State, India, is well known for their tribal population, and their unique, distinctive cultural heritage. In this area, the tradition of playing Madar has been going on since time immemorial. And even today, the tribals here use it in public programs like marriage, Teej festival and worship rituals etc.

This musical instrument is made of the wood from Khamar (Gmelina arborea) trees. When they go to the jungle to cut this Khamar tree, they offer prayer to their deity prior to cutting. They give this wood a specific shape - a cylindrical body with a slight bulge at its centre and heads at both ends, one head larger than the other. They cover both its ends with the skin of dead bulls and instead of regular jute ropes, they make ropes from the bull's skin. After the Madar is made, they paste a special Mandiya flour on the skins to make the sound wholesome and sweet. 

These Madar bands or troupes, composed of Drum Players and dancers have represented Chattisgarh in many national and international programs and are permanent performers at the Rajpath, New Delhi for Republic and Independence Day celebrations.

Please share this video to encourage the indigenous people to keep their traditions alive.

No Cards

A Call for Research on AI’s Role in Amplifying the Insights of the Systemically Unheard

 
/ January 14, 2025

The article argues that systematically ignoring and silencing the voices of the poor and marginalized worldwide does not serve society or democracy well and must be countered. While new technologies such as AI could provide an opportunity for change, we contend that these technologies need to account more effectively for...

Take Action

A bridge about to collapse in Bihar

 
/ February 22, 2023

The bridge that was built by the British is slowly chipping off, and fatal accidents are a regular occurrence there.   The villagers along with our Community Correspondent are requesting the Government officials to repair this bridge. They are getting assurance that the repair work will start soon though it...

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *