Design Interventions in Bell Metal at Ektaal Cluster

Abstract

Revitalization of crafts is widely talked about as the need of time for the survival of crafts and crafts people, especially in India. Crafts are pertaining to practices of making objects with indigenous knowledge passed down from generations. In a country like India crafts make the backbone of the economy as majority of the population has their primary mode of income. Today, globalization and industrialization has caused a setback in crafts as there are cheaper alternatives available for the same in the market. Employment opportunities have paved way for migration of craftsmen to other work sectors. It is necessary for revitalize the crafts sector to avoid loss of indigenous knowledge and practice. This process of metal casting has been used for over 4000yrs in India and is still practiced in major clusters. The major clusters that practice bell metal casting in Chhattisgarh are in Bastar, Kondagaon, Surguja and Ektaal (Raigarh). Both Bastar and Kondagaon are well established at international levels, creating products infused with different materials and crafts such as wrought iron. Ektaal is comparatively backward, the artisans are not promoted at a large scale at international level but are slowly making their mark at the global market. In this paper we will discuss about the Interventions at Ektaal cluster, which were deemed necessary for the craft to survive in the present market conditions. The main objective is to understand the impact of revitalization in the cluster, through various social, technological and design interventions by Government scheme and organizations. The method adapted for the study is based on literature and one to one physical survey of craftspeople, and government officials. The study established the issues, impacts and setbacks of the technology and design interventions.

Transformations of Vernacular Buildings of the Rural Areas in Chhattisgarh: The Case of Ektaal Village, Indonesia

“…Craftsmen's houses have been built with respect to their clusters where the backyard of each house and the by-lanes in between are used as workshop spaces specially for drying. There are small working spaces established by various NGOs working with the village which are placed within the cluster area, making it convenient for the craftsmen to use (Jagatramka & Prasad, 2021). Spatial Planning: Houses in the Pradhan para consisted of dwelling units that are rectangular and consist of rooms with kitchens and animal shelters.…”