23 • Folklore Journey through Gond Art • Harsh Raj Gond

Harsh Raj Gond, a talented designer, will present a 30-minute online talk on his film, “Folklore Journey through Gond Art and the Legacy of Jangarh Singh Shyam.” This presentation will delve into the making of the film, which captures the rich cultural heritage and storytelling traditions of Gond art. Harsh Raj Gond will discuss his inspiration for creating the film, highlighting how it showcases the vibrant and intricate art form that has been passed down through generations. The film pays homage to the renowned artist Jangarh Singh Shyam, whose innovative work transformed Gond painting and brought it to international recognition. Gond will share insights into the filmmaking process, including the challenges and joys of documenting the cultural narratives and artistic expressions unique to the Gond community. The presentation will conclude with a 30-minute Q&A, allowing the audience to explore the film’s themes, the legacy of Jangarh Singh Shyam, and the importance of preserving indigenous art forms.

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visual artist & filmmaker
Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

The Gond tribe, an ethnolinguistic group native to India, refers to themselves as "Koitur" and speaks the Gondi language, which belongs to the Dravidian family. The Gonds are deeply rooted in nature worship and spiritual practices, believing in the spiritual power of natural objects to connect with the divine. They practise a complex system of ancestor worship, seeking guidance from their ancestors in daily life. Gond society is organised into several exogamous patrilineal units known as sagas. Their traditional knowledge includes a rich understanding of astronomy, used for timekeeping and calendrical activities. They are well known for their artform called: Gond art, characterized by storytelling, depicts traditional rituals and highlights the relationship between humans and nature.

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