Sohrai Paintings

Sohrai paintings, an ancient and vibrant mural tradition, recently gained national attention at the Kala Utsav 2025 – Artists in Residence Programme held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

1. Historical and Cultural Roots

• Origin: The term "Sohrai" derives from the word ‘soro’, which means "to drive with a stick." This reflects the connection between the art and agricultural practices, where women traditionally painted to celebrate harvest and seasonal changes.

  Ancient History: The origins of Sohrai paintings date back to the Meso-chalcolithic period (9000-5000 BC). Isko rock shelters in the Barkagaon region of Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, contain rock paintings that resemble the motifs and styles found in traditional Sohrai art, suggesting its deep historical roots.

2. Key Features of Sohrai Paintings

• Vibrant Colors & Patterns: Sohrai paintings are characterized by intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and symbolic motifs. These murals often feature nature-centric themes, with strong connections to the local environment.

  Themes and Symbolism: The paintings typically represent elements of the natural world, such as:

  • Forests

    Rivers

    Animals

    Crops (especially the harvest)
    The art form symbolizes life cycles, nature’s bounty, and the spiritual connections between the people and the environment.

  Festivals: Sohrai is traditionally celebrated during the Sohrai festival, which marks the harvesting season and the onset of winter. This festival is central to the cultural practice of creating these murals, as they are a part of the celebration of nature's abundance.

  Materials Used: The paintings are created using natural substances like:

  • Charcoal

    Clay

    Soil
    These materials give the murals their distinct earthy and vibrant appearance.

3. Cultural Significance

• Tribal Tradition: Sohrai art is primarily practiced by indigenous tribal women belonging to communities like:

  • Kurmi

    Santal

    Munda

    Oraon

    Agaria

    Ghatwal
    These communities are primarily found in the States of Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal.

  Women-Centered Art: The creation of Sohrai paintings is deeply embedded in the cultural practices of tribal women, who use this art form as a means of expressing their identity and celebrating seasonal and spiritual milestones.

4. Geographical Roots and Recognition

• Hazaribagh, Jharkhand: The art form has deep historical roots in the Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand, where the tradition continues to thrive.

  GI Tag: The Sohrai Paintings have been officially recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition underscores the unique cultural and geographical heritage associated with the art form and ensures its protection and promotion as part of India’s intangible cultural assets.

Sohrai paintings not only represent a unique and vibrant art form but also reflect the rich cultural history and ecological relationship of the indigenous communities of India.