Creative celebration of Bagless Day

 

 

In a creative celebration of Bagless Day, Government Primary School in Khutpara Sonabal engaged its students in a hands-on workshop on the traditional Chhattisgarhi craft, Tuma Shilp. The initiative, in line with the New Education Policy, aimed to connect children with local culture while promoting creativity and self-reliance. The workshop was conducted by Anil Vishwakarma, recipient of the Kamala Devi Chattopadhyay National Junior Award, conferred by the Delhi Government. He demonstrated how decorative items can be crafted from bottle gourds (lauki/tuma), captivating the students with live demonstrations. Speaking on the occasion, Vishwakarma said, “Bottle gourd, besides being a vegetable, can be transformed into decorative items that offer livelihood opportunities. Children should not forget this traditional craft but use it as a tool for self-reliance.”

 

He explained that Tuma Shilp is a traditional craft of Chhattisgarh, mainly practiced by tribal artisans in Bastar and Kondagaon districts. The process involves drying the gourds for nearly a year, carving traditional motifs using heated iron tools, and finishing them with wax polish to enhance their natural beauty. Each piece remains unique, as artisans retain the natural shape of the gourd. The Chhattisgarh Handicraft Development Board actively promotes this craft through training programs, marketing initiatives, and exhibitions.

 

Products such as tuma lamps, wall décor items, and hanging showpieces from Bastar, Narayanpur, and Kondagaon are gaining national popularity, adorning homes, resorts, and cafés across India. Headmaster Hitendra Kumar Srivas said the visit of artists like Vishwakarma inspires students, fosters creativity, and strengthens their respect for local art and culture. More workshops are planned to help children learn beyond textbooks and stay connected with their cultural roots.