MP: Tribal Jewelry Shines at NIFT Exhibition in Bhopal: Jeevan Wala Dawar from Alirajpur Brings a New Dimension to Bhagoria Tradition
This year, a unique glimpse of tribal culture was on display at the NIFT exhibition held in Bhopal, the city of lakes. Jeevan Bala Dawar, from Jobat tehsil of Alirajpur district, displayed an impressive array of traditional tribal jewelry—necklaces, bracelets, and earrings—worn during the Bhagoria festival and wedding ceremonies. Visitors to the exhibition appreciated her art and showed great interest in purchasing.
Learned this traditional art from her mother-in-law
Jeevan Bala Dawar explained that she learned this traditional art from her mother-in-law, Shantibai Nathaniel, at the age of 16. Shantibai Nathaniel continued her creative work, keeping the art alive until the age of 94. Today, Jeevan Bala Dawar carries forward that tradition. Her entire family contributes to this work. Her son, Neeraj Dawar, also takes an interest in the art and provides ongoing guidance and support.
A commitment to preserving her tribal identity and cultural heritage
She says that whenever she gets even five minutes, she dedicates it to her art. For her, it's not just a means of livelihood, but a commitment to preserving her tribal identity and cultural heritage.
Jeevan has exhibited her art in international venues
Jeevan Bala Dawar has exhibited in almost half of India. She has exhibited her art in international venues like Sharjah and Dubai, as well as in numerous cities and colleges across the country, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Kochi, and Ernakulam. She also incorporates suggestions from students at various educational institutions into her jewelry, giving it a modern touch.
Honored with the Innovation Award
During this exhibition held at Gauhar Mahal, she was honored with the "Innovation Award" by Sushil Kumar Jain, President of the Environment Culture Conservation and Human Welfare Trust. This honor symbolizes her creativity and dedication to cultural preservation.
Expressing her heartache, Jeevan Bala Dawar said that she has not yet received any national-level award for preserving this art. She believes that if he receives national recognition, it will give new recognition and energy not only to him but to the traditions of the entire tribal community.
Such exhibitions organized by NIFT are providing a platform to local artists and playing an important role in giving national recognition to tribal art.