How did Baldev Waghmare, a Tribal Bharewa craftsman, receive the National Handicraft Award?
Synopsis
Baldev Waghmare from Madhya Pradesh's Betul district has been honored with the National Handicraft Award by President Droupadi Murmu. This prestigious recognition celebrates the rich heritage of the Tribal Bharewa craft, now acknowledged nationally with a GI tag, thanks to Baldev's dedicated efforts to revive this unique art form.
Key Takeaways
Baldev Waghmare received the National Handicraft Award .
The award recognizes the Tribal Bharewa craft of Madhya Pradesh.
Bharewa artisans are part of the Gond community .
Baldev transformed Tigriya village into a Craft Village.
The Bharewa craft has been granted a GI tag .
New Delhi/Bhopal, Dec 9 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu awarded Baldev Waghmare, a talented Bharewa craftsman hailing from Betul district in Madhya Pradesh, with the prestigious National Handicraft Award during a ceremony held in New Delhi on Tuesday.
The award signifies the national acknowledgment of the rich tradition of the Tribal Bharewa craft from Madhya Pradesh, which has recently received the GI (Geographical Indication) tag.
In the local dialect, ‘Bharewa’ translates to ‘those who fill’. Bharewa artisans are part of a sub-tribe of the Gond community, primarily located in India, especially in Central India. Their expertise in metal casting is a skill that is passed down through generations.
The Bharewa metal craft tradition has developed alongside the rituals and customs of the Gond tribal community, showcasing a unique combination of tradition and craftsmanship.
Bharewa artists create symbolic representations of deities and craft essential marriage adornments like rings and daggers for Gond families. Additionally, they produce specific ornaments, including wristbands and armlets, for spiritual leaders and traditional healers.
Their diverse range of decorative artworks and practical items, such as bullock carts, peacock-shaped lamps, bells, anklets, and mirror frames, have garnered attention in the global craft market.
The Bharewa community is primarily found in select regions of Betul district, approximately 180 km from Bhopal. Baldev has played a crucial role in revitalizing the dwindling number of Bharewa craftsmen.
His relentless efforts have transformed Tigriya village in Betul district into a ‘Craft Village’, where Bharewa families continue to uphold and practice this extraordinary traditional art form.
The Bharewa people possess profound knowledge of the religious traditions and customs of the Gond community. Among the deities for whom they create idols, the main ones include Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Another significant deity is Thakur Dev, believed to ride a miraculous horse and safeguard the village from calamities. Other deities associated with peace, prosperity, happiness, and health are also part of their craft.
In the quaint village of Tigriya, Baldev Bharewa has preserved this tradition. He learned the craft from his father and has achieved recognition as a master artisan. His family thrives on its traditional knowledge, artistic vision, and skills honed through dedication.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Baldev Waghmare's achievement. The National Handicraft Award not only honors individual artisans but also highlights the importance of preserving traditional crafts that embody our cultural identity. Baldev’s dedication to revitalizing the Bharewa craft is a testament to the resilience and creativity of India’s indigenous communities.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Baldev Waghmare?
Baldev Waghmare is a Bharewa craftsman from Betul district in Madhya Pradesh, who received the National Handicraft Award from President Droupadi Murmu.
What is the significance of the National Handicraft Award?
The National Handicraft Award recognizes exceptional artisans and helps promote traditional crafts, highlighting their cultural importance.
What is Bharewa craft?
Bharewa craft is a traditional metal craft practiced by the Bharewa community, known for creating symbolic artifacts and decorative items.
What does GI tag mean?
GI (Geographical Indication) tag is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin.
How has Baldev contributed to Bharewa craft?
Baldev has revitalized the Bharewa craft by transforming Tigriya village into a Craft Village, preserving the traditional skills and knowledge of this art form.
