International Journal of Advances in Social Sciences
  • Year: 2025
  • Volume: 13
  • Issue: 1

Mural paintings of kharak caste: Tradition, symbols and dialogue with nature

Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Government Arts College, Talaja, Dist. Bhavnagar

Online published on 29 May, 2025.

Abstract

The present article presents the importance of various art forms of Indian culture, with special focus on murals. Murals hold an important place in Indian culture, which bring history, culture and human emotions to life. This especially mentions Indian art and its cultural meaning, as well as the tradition of mural paintings of Kharak caste. The tools, methods and social and religious symbols associated with this art are discussed. The murals created by the women of Kharak caste are a reflection of their lifestyle and harmony with nature. Religious, natural and decorative symbols are painted in these murals, such as Lakshmiji's steps, Swastik and the pictures of the snake drawn on the day of Nag Pancham are drawn along with symbols in accordance with art and social norms. In the present times, this tradition is under threat of dependence, because artificial paints and electronic visual arts are being acquired in place of these murals in modern homes. However, some families still give place to these traditional murals in their homes today. This article has shown that if this tradition is not preserved, then this unique art and tradition may become invisible in the future. By deeply studying the information collected through this research and the meaning of culture, an attempt has been made to connect our traditional art and symbols with our contemporary culture and identity.

Keywords

Indian culture, Murals, Kharak, Folk culture, Religious symbols, White and colored drawings