Bhil Tribe Women Preparing Mud and Cow Dung Mixture for Bhitti Chitra

15-May-2026

This image from Sagwara village in Dungarpur district of Rajasthan shows two women from the Bhil tribe preparing a traditional mixture of mud and cow dung as part of the preparatory process for Bhitti Chitra art. They are mixing these natural materials by hand to create a uniform paste, which will later be applied on walls as a base layer.

This step is a crucial part of the wall painting process. The mixture of mud and cow dung helps in making the wall surface smooth, strong, and suitable for painting. Cow dung acts as a natural binder, adding strength and durability, while the mud provides a balanced and even base. Only after this layer is applied can natural colors like geru adhere effectively.

Beyond its technical role, this process carries deep cultural significance. In the Bhil community, preparing walls in this manner is associated with purity and auspiciousness. Women usually perform this task collectively, which not only distributes labor but also ensures the transfer of traditional knowledge across generations. The scene beautifully reflects the connection between nature, labor, and cultural belief systems.