Bastar Dokra: Timeless Beauty in Metal Craft

The Dokra art tradition in Bastar has its roots in ancient times, tracing back more than 4,000 years to the era of the Indus Valley Civilization. In the past, Dokra craftsmen were members of nomadic groups moving throughout central India, crafting elaborate metal pieces through a distinct lost-wax casting method.
Over the years, Dokra art has become closely linked to the cultural heritage of Bastar, as artisans continue to hand down their skills and methods to future generations. Today, Bastar Dokra is esteemed as one of the most ancient and unique types of metal craftsmanship in India, valued for its traditional techniques and enduring charm. Creating Bastar Dokra involves a laborious procedure that necessitates expertise, perseverance, and a thorough grasp of metallurgical principles. Artisans usually begin by making a clay model of the sculpture they want to create, and then they cover it with wax layers to form a mold.
Following that, the craftsman carefully uses classic hand tools like chisels, files, and punches to carve detailed designs and intricate patterns into the wax mold. After finishing the design, the mold is covered in a clay shell and placed in a furnace to melt the wax, resulting in an empty space.
Once the mould is completely filled, molten metal, usually a blend of brass and bronze, is poured in, adopting the form of the original sculpture. Following the cooling process, the clay shell is removed to expose the final Dokra artwork, which is then hand-polished and finished to improve its aesthetics and intricacy. Dokra craftsmen in Bastar frequently produce a range of items, such as statues, sculptures, ornaments, kitchenware, and embellishments. Every item is one-of-a-kind, showing the personal skill and creative taste of the maker.