Bhil Tribe Woman Pounding Rice to Prepare Paste for Bhitti Chitra

15-May-2026

This image from Sagwara village in Dungarpur district of Rajasthan shows women from the Bhil tribe traditionally pounding paddy using a wooden mortar and pestle to obtain rice. By removing the husk through this manual process, they prepare clean rice, which is an essential step in the preparation of Bhitti Chitra art.

Rice plays a crucial role in creating the white pigment used in wall paintings. The pounded rice is later ground into a fine paste, which is used to draw white motifs and patterns on the prepared wall surface. This natural pigment is eco-friendly and adheres well to the wall, ensuring durability of the artwork.

Beyond its functional purpose, this activity reflects deep cultural knowledge and tradition. Women are the primary bearers of this practice, and the skill is passed down through generations through observation and participation. What appears as a simple act of pounding rice is, in fact, a foundational step in the creation of Bhitti Chitra, symbolizing the strong connection between nature, labor, and cultural expression.