The Baiga community, residing in the dense forests of central and northern India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. One of the most distinctive aspects of Baiga culture is their naïve tattoo art, which holds deep spiritual and cultural significance. This ancient practice, which dates back to prehistoric times, is now being revitalized by a passionate artist from Lalpur, Madhya Pradesh—Mangala Bai Maravi.

The Cultural Significance of Baiga Tattoos

Tattoos in the Baiga community are not mere body decorations; they are symbols of identity, heritage, and spirituality. The women of the Baiga tribe traditionally adorn themselves with tattoos covering various parts of their bodies. The first tattoo, usually placed on the forehead around the age of 8-10, symbolizes a stove and serves as a mark of being a Baiga. These tattoos often depict elements of nature, such as fish, hooks, cows, beehives, and grains, reflecting the tribe's close relationship with their natural surroundings.

Mangala Bai Maravi, who grew up in a family of tattoo artists, explains, "The origin of this art can be traced back to prehistoric times, before man could even speak. Art was how they communicated and documented their daily lives."

Mangala Bai Maravi: A Guardian of Tradition

Mangala Bai Maravi's journey as a tattoo artist began at a very young age. She was deeply influenced by her parents, who were skilled tattoo artists in their village. "Whenever my mother tattooed someone, I would beg her to let me help too," she recalls with a smile. By the time she was seven, Mangala Bai had mastered the art of creating full-body tattoos, learning faster than her siblings due to her eagerness and close involvement with her parents.

By the age of eleven, Mangala Bai's mother, Shanti Bai Maravi, was being invited to cultural events and museums across India. Mangala Bai began assisting her mother by reproducing traditional tattoo designs on paper, canvases, and walls. This exposure led to invitations for her own work, allowing her to further develop and showcase her talent.

Reviving a Dying Tradition

Despite the historical and cultural importance of Baiga tattoos, the practice has been declining rapidly. Many young Baiga children face bullying and discrimination in schools due to their distinctive tattoos, leading them to abandon this centuries-old tradition. "When I was young, we would move from village to village tattooing every woman," Mangala Bai reminisces. "But hardly anyone is getting tattoos now. Some girls get their foreheads inked as per tradition, but even that is becoming rarer."

Mangala Bai Maravi is determined to preserve and revive this ancient art form. She hopes that by bringing Baiga tattoo art to a global stage, she can instill pride in Baiga children about their identity and heritage. Her efforts are not just about keeping the tradition alive, but also about ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the cultural significance of these tattoos.

A Global Platform for Baiga Tattoo Art

Mangala Bai Maravi's dedication to her craft and cultural heritage earned her a residency at the University of Sydney, marking her first trip outside India. This opportunity allowed her to present her work at the University’s Chau Chak Wing Museum during the Biennale of Sydney. Her series includes two fifteen-foot-long paintings: one depicting the frontal tattoos of Baiga women and the other showcasing the tattoos on their backs.

"This is the only time I’ve ever been nervous about my art," she shares, referring to the challenge of working on such large canvases. Despite her initial apprehension, Mangala Bai's work received widespread acclaim, bringing international attention to Baiga tattoo art.

Preserving Cultural Heritage Through Art

Mangala Bai Maravi's efforts to document and showcase Baiga tattoo art in contemporary mediums have not only preserved this ancient tradition but have also introduced it to new audiences around the world. Her collaboration with Amit Arjel-Sharma, who has been her artist assistant and close associate for nearly a decade, has further strengthened their mission to revive Baiga culture.

Through her art, Mangala Bai honors her ancestors and ensures that the rich tradition of Baiga tattoos continues to inspire and resonate with future generations. Her work is a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage and the role of art in preserving it.

Mangala Bai Maravi’s journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of safeguarding our cultural traditions and the role each of us can play in keeping our heritage alive. 

Based on an  Article by Saachi Gupta, originally published in Vogue India on 5 March 2024. Original Link - Vogue India