Chhattisgarh, a state rich in heritage and tradition, witnessed profound cultural developments during the British rule. These developments were marked by the growth of literature, arts, regional languages, and the preservation and adaptation of tribal cultural practices. The cultural transformation during this period reflected both continuity with traditional practices and adaptations to new influences brought by colonial rule.
Growth of Literature, Arts, and Regional Languages During British Rule
1. Emergence of Regional Literature
Development of Chhattisgarhi Language: Chhattisgarhi, the regional language, flourished as a medium for storytelling, folk songs, and poetry. Though considered a dialect of Hindi, Chhattisgarhi gained prominence as a literary language during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Literary Figures: Prominent poets like Surdas and folk storytellers kept the oral tradition alive. Later, British missionaries and scholars contributed to the documentation and standardization of the Chhattisgarhi language.
Christian Missionary Influence: Missionaries introduced education systems, which played a pivotal role in encouraging literacy. They also translated biblical texts into Chhattisgarhi, enabling the language to gain a written form.
2. Artistic Expressions
Traditional Arts: The folk arts of Chhattisgarh, such as Gond painting and Bastar art, remained integral to the cultural identity. British administrators, fascinated by tribal art, documented and sometimes showcased these forms in global exhibitions.
Introduction of New Art Forms: Under British influence, schools of fine arts began to emerge, leading to the amalgamation of local styles with Western techniques.
Performing Arts: Folk theater, particularly Nacha, flourished during this time, often used as a medium for social commentary and entertainment. The British administration allowed the continuation of these performances, viewing them as a harmless outlet for the populace.
3. Music and Dance
Preservation of Folk Music: Chhattisgarh's tribal music, rooted in local traditions and rituals, continued to thrive. Instruments like the mandar, dhol, and tudi remained central to these practices.
Cultural Synthesis: Colonial events and fairs introduced by the British often featured performances of local dances like Panthi, Raut Nacha, and Karma, ensuring their survival and evolution.
Western Influence: Some tribal groups adopted instruments introduced by the British, such as the harmonium, blending these with traditional sounds.
Preservation and Changes in Tribal Cultural Practices
Chhattisgarh's tribal population, including the Gonds, Baigas, and Halbas, played a crucial role in preserving the region's cultural identity during the British era. However, their practices also underwent transformations under colonial influence.
1. Tribal Festivals and Rituals
Preservation of Traditional Festivals: Festivals like Bastar Dussehra, Goncha, and Madai continued to be celebrated with fervor. These festivals served as platforms for communal bonding and cultural expression.
Adaptations to Colonial Rule: While traditional practices remained intact, British administrators occasionally incorporated these festivals into their governance by attending or sponsoring events, thus influencing their structure and presentation.
2. Tribal Art and Handicrafts
Preservation Through Documentation: British ethnographers documented tribal art, ensuring its recognition. This led to increased awareness and preservation of crafts such as Dhokra metalwork and wood carving.
Introduction of Market Systems: The colonial economy introduced markets for tribal handicrafts, leading to the commercialization of traditional art forms. While this provided financial benefits, it also influenced the designs and motifs, often catering to external tastes.
3. Impact of Missionary Activities
Introduction of Education: Missionary schools offered education to tribal communities, enabling them to document their oral traditions. However, this also introduced Western ideologies, leading to gradual changes in tribal lifestyles.
Religious Conversion: Christian missionaries promoted conversions among tribal groups, which occasionally led to alterations in cultural and religious practices. Despite this, many tribes retained core aspects of their traditions.
4. Tribal Governance and British Policies
Interference in Tribal Governance: British policies often disrupted traditional tribal governance systems. However, tribal communities adapted by integrating colonial administrative frameworks with their customary practices.
Preservation of Identity: The British, recognizing the distinctiveness of tribal cultures, implemented protective measures, such as the Scheduled Districts Act, which indirectly supported the preservation of tribal identities.
5. Changes in Attire and Lifestyle
Traditional Attire: Tribal groups continued to wear traditional clothing, such as lungis, sarees, and ornaments made from natural materials.
Introduction of New Materials: British trade brought new fabrics like cotton and silk, influencing tribal attire. Over time, these materials were incorporated into traditional designs.