Why Is Dhokra Art Diminishing From The Mainstream Society?

Indian handicraft sector is one the most important sectors of our economy. However, in the year 2019-2020, India faced a 3.35% decline in the export of handicrafts overseas. With multiple factors to consider for this gradual decline, concerns arise for the art and artisans that are becoming endangered with every passing day, as urbanization continues to engulf our country. 

Among the several diminishing art forms, an unusual craft that comes to mind is Dhokra. The ancient kind of metallurgy has become excessively rare today, with only limited tribal families practicing the craft. There is not one, but a composite of multiple causes that are taking Dhokra art form towards a steady decline.

Skyrocketing Costs

As much as 76.5% of artisans in the Indian handicrafts sector belong to rural regions (Ernst & Young, 2012).

The lost-wax technique used to create Dhokra handcrafted products requires a wide range of raw materials. While many of these raw materials can be locally sourced, (like clay, cow-dung, wax, etc.) it becomes difficult for Dhokra artisans to gather the cost for the brass or any other metal, without which the production process is incomplete. The families being tribal, often, do not have alternate sources of income. Thus, it becomes difficult for them to manage the growing costs of raw materials.

Primitive Techniques

Whether it is a simple Dhokra jewellery piece or a grand home decor item, the techniques used by these craftsmen are as primitive as they were thousands of years ago. The time taking procedure of making the mould and then casting the molten metal into it has led a lot of artisans to lose patience and interest in the art. They are in dire need of innovative mechanics that can match up with the fast-paced times of today, ultimately helping them to increase production.

Disappointed New Generation

One of the main reasons for the steady downfall of Dhokra art is the absence of a new generation that can shoulder the responsibility of taking it forward. The new generation of these tribesmen witness the hardships and endless toiling of their family members and end up looking for auxiliary methods of financial stability. In the absence of a well-trained youth to take the art ahead, Dhokra seems to have a bleak future.

Some other causes

Besides these three main causes, tribal artists also find it difficult to derive new inspirations that can keep up with the dynamics of modernization. They are restricted geographically and mentally to discover new avenues that will help them expand their art. Further, the deepening wedge between the buyers and sellers has made it difficult for artisans to communicate with people interested in their art or sell their products to distant locations.

Patronages that will allow people to buy Dhokra jewellery online along with other products and accessories is a simple step to make the craft more accessible to the world. The need of the hour is to come up with creative solutions that can not only secure the future of this art but also preserve the rich heritage of India.

About Author

Saransh Gupta is a copy and content writer. She is focused and organised, with a penchant for being punctual, no matter how tight the deadlines are. Occasionally, she finds time to teach tiny tots and shape young minds. For leisure, she binge-watches different series on OTT platforms and falls in love with fictional characters. A foodie at heart, poetry flows from her soul and through the ink and she dreams to create an impact on the world with her words.