June 1 – June 3, 2024
June 1, 2024 :
During our first day of the internship, we had the incredible opportunity to visit Inder Kumarji’s house in Pangna village, where we were able to observe the traditional art of pottery. Mr. Kumarji generously shared his knowledge with us, demonstrating the pot-making process and showcasing the various tools he uses in his craft. We were also fortunate to witness his kiln in action, gaining a deeper understanding of the intricate work that goes into creating these beautiful pieces.
We traveled to Devi Ram and Kishori Lal Ji’s residence after our informative visit to the pottery workshop, where we got caught up in the blacksmithing world. Watching the craftsmen at work as they skillfully and precisely craft instruments for those they serve is interesting. The feeling of friendship and collaboration that struck us when we discovered that their family members participated as well in the art emerged. The chief Mistry, Devi Ram Ji, and his group of ghanakaris kindly answered all of our questions and provided us with useful details about their traditional craft. We discovered the delicate craft of Mask Making from various metals for the purpose of personification of local Dieties in the region.
We also had the privilege of meeting Tula Ram Ji, a master craftsman who specializes in bamboo work, in the second half of the day. Tula Ram Ji ensures the continuation of this traditional art form by training nearby gram panchayats as the only person practicing this technique in Pangna village. We were deeply impacted by his dedication to his work and his willingness to impart his knowledge.
June 2, 2024 :
The following day, we began by accompanying Mr. Kishori Lalji to the farms to collect Chikni Mitti, or dirt, which is combined with Khaschher mitti to make bhatti (forge). The masters made the bhatti mixture by first placing bricks, then adding the mixture to bind everything together, and then doing the entire lipaai of the bhatti. They then allowed it to dry out and become usable.
June 3, 2024 :
Later the next day, we all made our way to Jhungi Gaon to retrieve the loha (iron) from the location where these blacksmiths, or lauhars, purchase it. We also witnessed the entirety of the intercommunal system of interdependence. After returning, we worshipped Lord Vishwakarma, performed puja, and ignited a fire in the bhatti. Making Shanesh (tongs) for future use in the making of other tools marked the conclusion of the day.
Every day the farmers of Village Baag in the Pangna Valley nourish us with organic and naturally grown fresh food, including Millets, from the farms or the nearby Karsog Natural Farmers Producer Company. Not just the fact that the food is so good, but also that it is served on biodegradable leaf plates from the forests in nearby regions made by crafts persons too.
Our exploring days demonstrated the villagers’ deep-rooted bonds and interdependence and had a fresh understanding of the value of craftspeople like blacksmiths in the neighborhood and realized how crucial they are to the villagers’ ability to support themselves.
June 4 – June 6, 2024
Our day began with an interesting activity on a sunny Tuesday morning: making daraats. We got into the traditional craft of ghana hammering, with each intern given a turn to try their hand at it. We also attempted to make handles for these daraats by utilizing the Tuni ka lakda (red cedar tree’s wood), carefully filing them with a retti (half-round file) and chiselling them with a basola (a kind of axe). Not only was it interesting to participate in these activities, but it was also interesting to discover the regional names for the tools that were utilized.
Chiselling and Hammering
Later in the afternoon of June 5th, we were treated to a glimpse of the traditional ‘Gharaat’ of the area. Witnessing the age-old techniques being put into practice in today’s world was truly captivating. We had the opportunity to observe their turbine, known as Kakkar, and gain insight into the entire process.
Bhuleshwar ji ( Master craftsman who handles the Gharaats )
In addition to the hands-on experiences, we engaged in a meaningful conversation with the Todanis, the skilled stone workers of the village. Through this interaction, we gained valuable knowledge about the Jajmani system that they once followed and the interdependence of their lives with the lives of the Lauhaars.
The experience shed light on the beautiful interrelation, interdependency, and friendly bond that exists among the various working communities within the village. It was truly an eye-opening and enriching experience, showcasing the enduring traditions and community ties within the local culture.