Odisha State Tribal Museum

Abstract

The State of Odisha is uniquely proud for its tinted spread of ethnic mosaic brought over by its 62 culturally vibrant tribes including 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), who are sprinkled, all over the State. Numbering 95.9 lakhs of persons and constituting 22.85 % of the Stats population as per 2011 census, the tribal people showcase a rainbow of material culture and cultural trappings, which are held beautifully in an ethnic kaleidoscope. In these days, their indigenous tools, technologies, weapons, basketry, pottery, textiles, dress, ornaments, ritual objects are losing meaning to the new generation. Therefore, protection and preservation of these tools, appliances and material traits in the museum has become a necessity to know the antecedents of human life and living. For their preservation and promotion Government of Odisha in ST & SC Development Department has already established a Museum of Tribal Arts and Artefacts in the premises of SC & ST Research & Training Institute (SCSTRTI) located at C.R.P. Square, Bhubaneswar in the year 2001. It has been serving as a springboard for eco-tourism in Tribal Odisha. Overseas eco-tourists, come to the museum as their first itinerary before fanning out to the backwaters of tribal Odisha. Over the years it has developed into a complex having components like the main museum, PVTG Gallery, 07 replicas of Tribal Huts, the sacred arena of Tribal Shrine Crafts, fully Air Conditioned Auditorium, Souvenir Shop and a Tribal Food Court. It is surrounded by landscaping, floral garden, water fountain adding scenic beauty to the complex and creating an ambience of tribal world of Odisha. This colourful booklet on tribal museum has been prepared to show this unique institution in all of its pristine freshness. Frankly speaking this volume reflects the tribal culture, art and architecture in its own way as displayed in our exclusive tribal museum. Brief descriptions on selected items of textiles of different tribal groups, their personal adornments, weapons and implements, household articles, musical instruments, art, crafts and photographs as showcased in this museum find place of pride in it. Even small things of everyday use like combs, wine pipes, tobacco containers, smoking pipes, lighters, ritual knives and axes, catapults, bird, rabbit and fishing traps, musical drums, flutes, strings and fiddles etc.have been shown by textual and visual illustrations. It is hoped that this colourful booklet will prompt the learned readers to visit this ethnographicmuseum, appreciate it's exhibits, events and activities and record their valuable comments in the Visitors Book.