Anthropological Museum – The Perfect Picture of Bastar History

This is established in the office of the Anthropological Survey of India. It provides a perfect picture of the History, culture and lifestyle of various Adivasi tribes in Bastar. It houses a fine collection of numerous objects of ethnographic interest. the rare items on display at the museum throw light on the rituals and customs followed by various tribes in Bastar and highlight their style of living and religious practices.

It is one of the prominent museums in Central India. The rare collections, at the museum cove various fields of Anthropology like ethnology, linguistics, archaeology and physical anthropology. Some of the rare collections include head gear, ornaments, weapons, masks, art work, sculptures and musical instruments, paintings, wood carvings etc.

It gives an idea of different Bastar tribal groups, their customs and forms of worship. The exhibits include items of daily use, photographs, models and artefacts etc. The collections in the museum also include items from Koraput of Odisha and Khammam of Telengana area. There is a small reading room with a fair collection of Books.

This museum is a Window to the lifestyle and ethnic cultures of various tribes of Bastar. It is about 4 km from the city centre.

The Anthropological Museum in Jagdalpur, Bastar is a museum dedicated to showcasing the tribal culture and heritage of the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, India. The museum was established in 1972 by the Tribal Research and Development Institute, and it has since become a popular destination for visitors interested in learning about the region’s rich tribal history.

The museum is located in the heart of Jagdalpur, which is the largest city in the Bastar region. The museum’s building is designed to reflect the traditional tribal architecture of the region, with red bricks and wooden beams creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The museum has a vast collection of tribal artifacts, including clothing, jewelry, weapons, musical instruments, and household items.

One of the primary objectives of the museum is to preserve and promote the tribal culture of the region. The museum achieves this by providing visitors with a comprehensive overview of the various tribal communities that call Bastar home. The museum has exhibits on the Gond, Maria, Muria, and other tribes, showcasing their unique customs, traditions, and way of life.

The museum’s exhibits are organized thematically, with each section focusing on a specific aspect of tribal life. One section of the museum is dedicated to traditional tribal clothing, showcasing the intricate patterns and designs of the various tribes. Visitors can see examples of the Dhurwa men’s turban, the Muria women’s saree, and the Maria men’s loincloth. The clothing exhibits also showcase the use of natural dyes, such as indigo and turmeric, and the intricate embroidery work that is a hallmark of the region’s textile industry.

Another section of the museum is dedicated to tribal arts and crafts. Visitors can see examples of the region’s famous bell metal and wrought iron crafts, as well as examples of the tribal’s terracotta pottery, bamboo crafts, and wooden carvings. The museum also has a collection of tribal paintings, showcasing the unique style and subject matter of the region’s traditional art.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Anthropological Museum is the collection of tribal musical instruments. Visitors can see examples of the Dholak, Nagada, Mandar, and other instruments that are an integral part of the region’s traditional music. The museum also has a collection of tribal weapons, including bows, arrows, and axes, showcasing the region’s traditional hunting and warfare practices.

The Anthropological Museum in Jagdalpur is not just a static collection of artifacts, but also a dynamic institution that promotes the ongoing study and appreciation of tribal culture. The museum regularly hosts seminars, workshops, and other events to promote the study and understanding of tribal culture. The museum’s library is also an excellent resource for researchers, with a vast collection of books and journals on tribal history, culture, and society.

In conclusion, the Anthropological Museum in Jagdalpur, Bastar is a fascinating destination for visitors interested in learning about the rich tribal culture and heritage of the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. The museum’s exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the various tribal communities in the region, showcasing their unique customs, traditions, and way of life. The museum’s emphasis on preserving and promoting tribal culture, through ongoing research and public events, makes it an essential institution for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region.