Santhal Women Carrying Soil from Forest for Sohrai Painting Colors

24-Mar-2026

This image depicts the hard work and traditional way of life of women from the Santhal tribe in Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand. In the photograph, two women from the Santhal community are seen returning from the forest carrying soil. One woman is walking with a basket (doli) balanced on her head filled with soil, while the other woman carries a hoe-like tool on her shoulder. These women collect special types of soil from the forests, which is used to prepare the natural colors for Sohrai painting. From this soil, natural pigments such as red, yellow, black, and white are prepared. This scene reflects the dedication and hard work of Santhal women, their deep bond with nature, and the age-old tradition of Sohrai art that they continue to keep alive through their labor and skill.