Madhya Pradesh

• 17 Dec 2024

Baiga Tribal Artist Jodhaiya Bai Passed Away

Why in News? 

Recently, Jodhaiya Bai, a renowned Baiga tribal artist and Padma Shri awardee, passed away in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh after a prolonged illness. 

 Key Points 

• Contribution to Baiga Tribal Art: 
  • Jodhaiya Bai played a pivotal role in gaining international recognition for Baiga tribal art. 
  • She was honored with the Padma Shri award in 2023 for her significant contributions to the field of arts. 
• Condolences from the Chief Minister: 
  • The Chief Minister expressed deep grief over her demise. He stated that both Madhya Pradesh and the country have lost an artist who dedicated her life to promoting tribal culture, art, and traditions nationally and internationally. 

 Baiga Tibe 

• The Baiga (means sorcerers) is one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). 
• They mainly live in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. 
• Traditionally, the Baiga lived a semi-nomadic life and practised slash and burn cultivation. Now, they are mainly dependent on minor forest produce for their livelihood. 
  • Bamboo is the primary resource. 
• Tattooing is an integral part of Baiga culture, every age and body part has a specific tattoo reserved for the occasion.