It is a real pleasure to explore the beauty of the Crafts of Chhattisgarh specially the Terracotta Figures. If you want to see the good collection of these figurines then visit the districts of Bastar, Jhabua, Raigarh and Mandia. In these districts Terracotta Figures are found in profusion.
On taking a look at the Terracotta Figures in Chhattishgarh, India you will come across a fact that these figures are not only valuable from the point of view of their beauty and making but also of their religious connotation and the belief that natives hold. In many of the villages of Chhattisgarh you will see that the Terracotta Figures are placed on the borders. This is done to get rid of the evil spirits and assuage unseen forces. Besides, these are also kept on the boundaries to secure peaceful and happy life.
Some of the most common and famous Terracotta Figures are that of Matri Devi or mother Goddess. The icons of the Mother Goddess are placed on the borders of the villages to save villagers from plague, fever and epidemics.
On a visit to Bilaspur, you will see that tribal people adorn the roof tiles of their houses with the human and animal Terracotta Figures. However the specialty of the Baigas and Gonds of Mandla Region is that they make Terracotta Figurines having huge noses and half-open eyes with animal hair on their heads.
The sight of the elephant and horse terracotta statuettes would be very captivating. Besides, the votive Terracotta Images of the Hindu gods and goddesses such as Ganesha, Hanuman, Shiva and Kali will be just enthralling and you would not be able to hold yourself from buying those lovely icons. Large votive figures that flaunt fine line of work and intricate detailing are also available in the markets. It is a real delight to go for any of them.
Other Terracotta Items that form major part of buying are lamps and tribal masks. You can see the extensive use of the colorful masks during dance and music performances of the tribal people in Chhattisgarh. If you want you can also purchase an elegant grain storage bin, boasting rich human or animal shapes, which is the specialty of the Gond, Sahariya, Baiga and Pradhan.
