-----The Story-----

The Dhokra damar tribes of ancient India settled in different regions of the country; in West Bengal, they are continuing their non-ferrous metal casting work in mainly two places – Dariapur in Bardhaman and Biknaph in Bankura. The lost wax casting technique practiced by these artisans is more than 4000 years old : the earliest known example is the dancing girl of Mohenjo-daro. The primitive simplicity, charming folk motifs, rustic beauty and imaginative designs of the sculptures are breath taking and are widely appreciated in both domestic and international markets. All the family members except the very little ones are involved in the art, as income is rather meagre. Here are a few glimpses of the village and the people.