Darwaza- a beautifully carved large door collected from 1998 was displayed as displayed in the audience as ‘First Exhibit of the month’ under an online series of Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya on Monday. Director, IGRMS Dr Praveen Kumar Mishra said that Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (National Museum of Mankind), initially this series will focus on the masterpieces from its collection which are considered as unique for their contribution to the cultural history of a particular ethnic group or area.

 

The people of Gujarat have a rich tradition of wood carving, and this age-old practice of wood-craft became culturally integrated into the folk and urban life of the region. The evolution of wood carving in the region is believed to have been guided by socio-religious principles and personal taste of ornamentation. The main door of the house occupies an important place in the Gujarati community as a symbol of their architectural, social and cultural identity. It symbolises the wealth and status of the family.

 

Regarding this object Dr Sudeepa Roy said that the present exhibit is an ornately carved traditional door, profusely ornamented with human figures, birds, and creeper motifs. It additionally has a small door-like opening on the left panel for regular use. The carved images of female drummers and dancers are shown in the square niches. Iron bar reinforcements at regular intervals with rows of buckle-like arrangements and intricate carving give extra attention to feel the three-dimensional effect. The glory of this wood carving art of Gujarat is gradually vanishing due to the influence of modernisation.