Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior - Craft Documentation by khyati garg

Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior A generational craft with a cultural connect

Copyright © NID 2022 For Private circulation only Written and documented by: Khyati Garg | Toy and Game Design | Batch of 2020 | National Institute of Design, India Illustrations by Khyati Garg Photographs taken and edited by Khyati Garg unless stated otherwise. All rights reserved under International Copyright © 2022 convention. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any other information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the concerned authorities.

Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Table of Content Acknowledgment

Preface

Chapter 1 - Introduction

10-13

Chapter 2 - Into the region 2.1 The Contemporary City 2.2 Scindias - The Royal Seal 2.3 Culture 2.4 Crafts around Gwalior 2.5 Cloth dolls of Madhya Pradesh

14-27 18,19 20,21 22,23 24,25 26,27

Chapter 3 Tradition of doll marriage 3.1 Practices Around India 3.2 Marrying doll in Bundelkhand region 3.4 Cultural and Religious Significance 3.5 Remembering the tradition

28-32 30,31 32,33 34,35 36,37

Chapter 4 Batto Bai dolls 4.1 History of Batto Bai Dolls 4.2 Batto Bai Family 4.3 About the craft

38-75 42-45 46-51 52, 53

4.4 Material and Process 4.5 Design Evolution 4.6 Dolls and extended Product Range 4.7 Marketing channels and Distribution 4.8 Challenges and Support

54-61 62-65 66-69 70,71 72-75

Chapter 5 Dolls of Madhya Pradesh 5.1 Introduction to Jhabua Dolls 5.2 Comparative study of Jhabua and Batto Bai dolls.

76 -83 78, 79 79 - 83

Chapter 6 Conclusion

84-87

Glossary

88, 89

Photo Gallery

90-99

Bibliography and Webliography

100,101

Preface National Institute of Design (NID) is internationally acclaimed as one of the finest educational and research institutions for Industrial, Communication, Textile and IT Integrated (Experiential) Design. It is a statutory institute under the DIPP, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It has been recognized as an ‘Institution of National Importance by the Act of Parliament, by virtue of the National Institute of Design Act 2014. It is also recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Government of India as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation.

Facing page Batto Bai male doll

The range and diversity of living traditions in handicraft and textile in India are breathtaking. It has been an ongoing effort of the NID to document and showcase the knowledge of multidimensional craft traditions. At the National Institute of Design, we undertake Craft Documentation, a researchbased module, which enables us to understand the traditional craft culture of India. These craft traditions, deeply intertwined with regional sensibilities, are windows to the culture and traditions of communities. Indian Crafts are wideranged, each state having its crafting practice. One

such state is Madhya Pradesh, the heart of India, pulsating with rich cultural heritage and crafting traditions. Batto Bai dolls of Gwalior is a noteworthy example of crafts practiced in the state. Batto Bai dolls is a generational craft, deep-rooted in the region’s culture. The craft is vanishing because of westernization and the advent of new toys in the market. There is much more to the craft than the pair of dolls and this book is an attempt to highlight the same. The books mainly revolved around the Batto bai dolls - its makers, process, and legacy, and the cultural significance of the practice of doll marriage linked to the craft. It is outset with an introduction to the region, the doll marriage tradition. It moves on to the Batto bai dolls talking about its makers, legacy, process, and challenges faced by craft with a comparative study with Jhabua dolls.

Acknowledgment At the very outset of this document, I would like to extend my heartfelt obligation towards all the personages who helped me in this endeavor. I want to thank Mr. Bharat Singh Parihar and his wife, Mrs. Kalpana Parihar, who enthusiastically indulged in sharing their knowledge and their warm hospitality.

Ms. Nidhi Sah and Ms. Carmina Fernandes in the compilation of this project in its present form. Last but not least, I would like to thank especially to my mother and my family as a whole for their continuous support and encouragement that has sustained me so far.

I am incredibly thankful for the guidance and support provided by Ms. Sonal Chauhan, Associate Senior Designer & Discipline Lead, Apparel Design Department, National Institute of Design,

Facing page Batto Bai female doll

Introduction 11

From ancient times, dolls of various types fascinated men, women, and children all over the world. Children, in particular, have found great fun and delight in dolls, which also help them to develop their intellect and imagination. We Indians, have a very special affection for the dolls. They are part of a tradition, we have grown up with. At one time dolls were given away as wedding presents to the child bride. Today, dolls not only provide a diversion but also a colorful canvas for depicting Indian life in its plethora of cultural beauties.

Each region is known for its typical dolls and toys made from a variety of materials. Assam and West Bengal fashion toys out of pith. In the eastern terracotta belt, the theme of “mother and child” models, are popular. Varanasi, Lucknow, Mathura, and Vrindavan are reputed for their brightly painted wooden dolls and toys, Tirupati for its ‘dampati’ (man-woman) dolls. Rajasthan makes dolls of unbaked clay. In Madhubani, dolls are made of sikki, grass. Kondapalli in Andhra Pradesh makes some of the traditional dolls and toys out of a mixture of cow dung, sawdust, and clay and covers them with lustrous pigments. In Madhya Pradesh, there are Batto Bai dolls and Jhabua dolls which are made in pairs primarily made of fabric pieces and bamboo.

have a basic simplicity and charm, which sets them apart from other dolls, which are usually made to be realistic in appearance. The city of Gwalior has a traditional cloth doll craft named after its maker the ‘Batto Bai dolls’. The dolls are handcrafted pairs that have a cultural relevance in the festival of Akshay Tritiya /Akha Teej. Local unmarried girls wed these dolls on Akshay Tritiya / Akha Teej with the hope of getting married themselves soon. The tradition of doll marriage is a ritual practiced across the country for various purposes.

The cloth doll has been in existence for almost as long as the cloth itself and has been popular throughout history. The main reason for this is that cloth is the easiest of all materials for a woman to find. A mother could always use at least an old rag to fashion a doll for her child. These two reasons were the basis for the selection of cloth as the material for costume dolls. Another reason was that even though it is simple to make a doll from cloth it is not simple to make a realistic one. Cloth dolls

Introduction | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Batto Bai dolls stall with Batto bai (women holding the doll) and her daughter in the frame.

Introduction | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Into the region 15

One of the most beautiful cities of Madhya Pradesh in India, Gwalior is very famous for its marvelous palaces, old temples, and medieval fort. Being the birthplace of the great musician Tansen, the city is also highlighted for its majestic history and rich cultural heritage. Above all, Gwalior is famous for its art aesthetics and rich craft traditions. . On the streets of Gwalior, one may witness a wide range of crafts. The city offers a wide range of beautiful crafts to offer visitors, from cotton textiles to leather accessories.

Gwalior, city, northern Madhya Pradesh state, central India. It is situated about 75 miles (120 km) south of Agra. Gwalior is a cultural, industrial, and political center and takes its name from the historic rock fortress that forms the center of the city. It has been referred to as Gopa Parvat, Gopachal Durg, Gopagiri, and Gopadiri, all of which means “cowherd’s hill.” A city brimming with great history and melodic music, Gwalior holds an important place in the heart of incredible India. It is dotted with plain and hilly landscapes which transform into a lush green carpet as the monsoon approaches. Gwalior is best known for its imposing hilltop fort, which was famously described as ‘The pearl amongst fortresses in India’. The city stands as the testimony of dynasties that ruled over the decades. Their influence is clearly seen in the many regal structures that dominate the cityscape. In a sense, Gwalior continues to retain a medieval majesty.

Gwalior fort. Gwalior holds an unparalleled taste and popularity in Hindustani Classical Sangeet and has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. The Gwalior Gharana is one of the oldest and prominent Khayal Gharanas. Legendary musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawara belonged to Gwalior and sang for the royal court of Gwalior. Also known as the Heart of Incredible India, you must visit Gwalior for its history and architecture, apart from the serene ambiance and ancient temples. Gwalior has a distinct charm of its own that can be experienced only if you explore it well enough.

The fourth-largest city of Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior has also known to be an educational hub owing to the Scindia School that is situated right inside the Facing page Gwalior Fort Image courtsey Wikipedia

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

The Contemporary City The old city of Gwalior centers on the walled fortress, one of the most famous in India, that is situated atop a cliffed plateau nearly 2 miles (3 km) long that rises a sheer 300 feet (90 meters) from the plain. The fort was first mentioned in a temple inscription about 525 CE. Of strategic importance is guarding the main route from the plains of northern India, it was in the hands of Hindu rulers until 1232 and then changed hands several times between Muslim and Hindu rulers until 1751. Thereafter it remained a Maratha stronghold, although it was captured by the British many times. It was evacuated by the British in 1886 in exchange for the imposition of British rule over the city of Jhansi.

Gwalior is an important commercial and industrial center that is engaged in the distribution of agricultural produce, cloth fabrics, building stone, and iron ore. The city’s major industries include the manufacture of footwear, pottery, biscuits (cookies), cigarettes, textiles, carpets, plastics, rayon, glass, and matches; cotton, flour, sugar, and oilseed milling; and stone carving. It is on a major national highway, is a railway junction, and has an airport handling domestic flights.

Facing page Jai Vilas Palace

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Scindias - The Royal Seal

Sindhia family, Sindhia also spelled Sindia or Scindia, Maratha ruling family of Gwalior, which for a time in the 18th century dominated the politics of northern India. The dynasty was founded by Ranoji Sindhia, who in 1726 was put in charge of the Malwa region by the Peshwa (chief minister of the Maratha state). By his death in 1750, Ranoji had established his capital at Ujjain. Only later was the Sindhia capital moved to the rock fortress of Gwalior. Probably the greatest of Ranoji’s successors was Sindhia Mahadaji (reigned 1761–94), who created a north Indian empire virtually independent of the Peshwa. He emerged from the war with the British East India Company (1775–82) as the recognized ruler of northwestern India. With the aid of French officers, he defeated the Rajputs, took the Mughal emperor Shah Alām under his protection, and Jivajirao Scindia Image courtsey Wikipedia

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

finally won control of the Peshwa by defeating the Maratha Holkar, the Peshwa’s chief general, in 1793. His grandnephew, Daulat Rao, however, suffered serious reverses. He came into conflict with the British in 1803. After being defeated in four battles by General Gerard Lake, he was obliged to disband his French-trained army and sign a treaty; he gave up control of Delhi but retained Rajputana until 1817. The Sindhia became clients of the British in 1818 and survived as a princely house until 1947. Vijaya Raje Scindia concert of Jivajirao Scindia, also known as Rajmata of Gwalior was also an influential figure from the family. Prominent members of the family in more recent times have included the politicians Vasundhara Raje and her older brother, Madhavrao Scindia. The Scindia School was founded by the late Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia of Gwalior in 1897, as the Sardar School. It was originally started exclusively for nobles and princes of Royal families, particularly the Marathas, though it no longer discriminates on class. Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya is an all-girls boarding school in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, in India. It was established by the Rajmata of Gwalior State, Vijaya Raje Scindia.

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Vijaya Raje Scindia concert of Jivajirao Scindia, also known as Rajmata of Gwalior Image courtsey Wikipedia

Culture The Culture of Gwalior is characterized by a fine composite of Bundeli and Braj cultures wherein the indigenous religious, historical, architectural, and artistic bequest of Gwalior is reflected through its illustrious tradition of art, music, dance, poetry, and festivals. People of Gwalior are very soft and resilient at their heart. They are having a very polite and welcoming nature and make the visitors very comfortable with their hospitable behavior. Courtesy and hospitability are the two main facets of the people of Gwalior that make visitors a big fan of them. Gwalior is located at RajasthanMadhya Pradesh border and one can clearly see

the influence of Rajasthani culture on the living in Gwalior. Marwaris and Baniyas live in large numbers in Gwalior. Their festivals like Gangaur are adapted by locals too.

Facing page Daulatganj Market Place

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Crafts around Gwalior Gwalior handicraft presents an awe-inspiring array of colorful and creative products. From leather products and carpets to papier mache items, the handicraft of Gwalior offers a number of diversified articles.

Leather Craft of Gwalior

Gwalior Carpets

The leather shoes, bags, and other accessories of Gwalior are also a part of the district’s handicraft industry. Known for long-lasting quality and innovative designs the leather works of Gwalior have a huge national market. Leatherwork Gwalior offers a fascinating range of products like musks, bags, jutties, and shoes. As an important part of the Gwalior handicraft, the leather items of the district have high demand both in the local as well as national markets.

Woven carpets – a rich woven textile that is designed to adorn the naked floor till it almost ends up embracing the entire household through an unmistakable appeal of luxury. A Gwalior carpet can really become a neighbor’s envy and an owner’s pride. The raw materials required for this craft are wool, which is sourced from Bikaner and Amritsar, viscose comes from Panipat & Surat, and cotton is brought from Haryana.

The red leather products with fine embroidery are the specialties of Gwalior. Manufactured by local artisans, the leather articles of Gwalior are popular for durable quality. The leather shoes manufactured in Gwalior are known for exclusive longevity. The leather bags of Gwalior are also quite famous for bright colors and innovative designs.

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

The unique patterns and styles of carpets made in Gwalior possess a distinct vocabulary of flowers, leaves, and other design motifs inspired by nature. These floral designs are more popular as compared to rugs with geometric patterns.

Paper-mache of Gwalior The papier-mache art of Gwalior is quite famous. The colorful dolls of papier-mache are found in almost every corner of Gwalior. The beautiful craft of papier-mache is an important part of Gwalior’s handicraft industry. The Nagvanshi community of Gwalior is involved in making papier-mache articles, like birds, animals, and other decorative items using soaked paper, colors, and glue.

of Plaster-of-Paris are made. The papier-mache dough is beaten into thick sheets and then cast in these molds. It is dried in the sun and smoothened with sandpaper. Vibrant colors are used to paint and decorate these beautiful articles.

The articles made using papier-mache are known for their bright and arresting colors and one would find the color gold a common feature in most of them. The skilled craftsmen of Gwalior also make beautiful toys using the unique craft technique. Earlier, papier-mache was used to create ornate articles like vases and figurines of popular icons. The process of crafting an article is an intricate one. Firstly, the clay is sculpted and then molds

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Cloth dolls of Madhya Pradesh

Batto Bai dolls of Gwalior One of the most acclaimed crafts of Gwalior is its cloth dolls craft named, Batto Bai Dolls. The cloth dolls are one of a kind in terms of process and purpose. The dolls have a high religious and cultural significance. On Akha Teej, young girls marry dolls, which are always made and sold in pairs, in order to gain blessings for their married life. After the creator Batto Bai received the National Award in 1967, the craft became more well-known. Currently, the craft is practiced by the third generation of Batto Bai in Gwalior. Batto Bai dolls

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Jhabua Dolls The craft of doll-making in Jhabua is very old and now enjoys national fame. It is almost a heritage and refers to it as ‘adivasigudiyashilp’. It truly represents the tribal men and women in colorful traditional dresses along with their paraphernalia. Facial expressions are painted onto them that liven up their features. The dolls come in various shapes and sizes, in groups and pairs, in decorative casings, or in open. These are given to the bride in her marriage in several parts of the country and are also wed by young girls on Akha Teej. Jhabua Dolls Image courtsey Gaatha

Into the region | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Tradition of Doll Marriage 29

A doll’s wedding or ‘guriya ki shaadi’ as it is lovingly called, is a unique activity that used to take place every now and then in a kid’s life. The doll wedding tradition allowed kids from the family and neighborhood to join in the event and enjoy to the fullest, just like a real wedding. All the rites and rituals are celebrated just like adults have a traditional wedding with different functions. A doll wedding are not just a way to pass some leisure time. Sometimes these doll weddings are celebrated as a grand occasion on a festival. It is a reflection of society we live in, and holds a strong religious connection.

Practices Around India One of my favourite childhood game was organizing the marriage of dolls. In India, every child has performed this pretend play once in a lifetime but in few parts of the country, the practice is linked to a religious context. Rituals of Doll marriage can be seen in various parts of the country from the far east of Assam to the south Indian wedding ceremonies. In Assam, the dolls are married in the village of Tangarkur, as they believe that the doll marriage will bring peace and keep them safe from all unknown and mysterious powers. The villagers of Tangarkur here can’t remember exactly since when and who actually started the tradition of doll marriage at the village, but they do know that since time immemorial, the villagers are continuing this tradition with all religious and social formalities on the premises of the Jagannath Mandir on the 7th day of Rongali Bihu. There are many accounts of doll marriages to please the rain god Indra. In a unique ritual in

Tradition of Doll Marriage| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Karnataka’s Hubli, a community performed a wedding of dolls, a ceremony they believe will fetch them good rains. From asking the doll’s hand for marriage to taking the seven vows, all rituals were performed in a traditional style. A feast was also arranged for all the guests. The community which performed the wedding of dolls believes that this age-old forgotten tradition has been revived as it brings good luck. A similar practice was observed in Orissa, where the marriage of Traditional lac dolls was held to bring rains and save produce. In Madhya Pradesh’s Bundelkhand region, the tradition of marriage is practiced around the Akha Teej festival. Young girls perform the ceremony with the hope to get married themselves. A contemporary version of the practice is seen in south Indian weddings where miniature dolls are married to remove Kundali Dosh and are used for ornamentation.

Facing page Doll marriage mandap

Tradition of Doll Marriage| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Marrying dolls in Bundelkhand region Bundelkhand is a geographical and cultural region and also a mountain range in central & North India. The hilly region is now divided between the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, with the larger portion lying in the latter state. The region has its distinct culture and art. One of the rituals performed by the locals is of marrying dolls in Akshay Tritiya, locally known as Akha Teej, Gangaur, and Hartalika Teej by young girls. There is the belief that marrying these dolls will give them blessings and they themselves will get married

soon. Dolls are made locally across the region for the event. One such prominent craft is the Batto Bai dolls of Gwalior, which are famous for their doll pairs made for the Akha Teej ritual. Apart from the Bundelkhand region, In the tribal belt of Jhabua, one can also see the Jhabua dolls which are made for both decoration and ritual purposes.

Facing page Doll marriage in Akha Teej in Gwalior

Tradition of Doll Marriage| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Crafts around Gwalior Doll marriage has been practiced since generation as part of a play or as part of rituals. There are festivals in India, where people perform the ceremony. In a few cases, it is performed by a certain section of the community and in a few, idol-making is part of the culture itself. Marwari communities perform these festivals with great enthusiasm. There are also many tribal and local

Bundelkhandi communities performing the ritual. Akha Teej / Akshay Tritiya, Hartalika Teej, and Ganguar are prominent festivals when this ritual is performed by only unmarried women with the belief the practice will give them a perfect groom and happy marriage. All three festivals are centered around women.

Akha Teej / Akshay Tritiya

Hartalika Teej

Akshaya Tritiya also known as Akha Teej in Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand is one of the holiest and auspicious days celebrated by the Hindus across the country. Akshaya Tritiya is a day dedicated to Lord Vishnu - the preserver of the Universe. According to Hindu mythology, the Treta Yuga began on Akshaya Tritiya. It is considered as one of the very auspicious days for marriage in Hindus. There are a lot of reported cases on child marriage as well on Akshay Tritiya. Unmarried women widely purchased dolls during “Akshaya Tritiya” and “Akha Teej”. They then get these pairs married at their homes, hoping to be married themselves soon.

Hartalika Teej is one such festival that is widely celebrated, especially in the Northern states of India. This Teej festival is an all-women celebration where married and unmarried women seek the blessings of Goddess Parvati. It is celebrated in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada on the Tritiya or the 3rd day of the Shukla paksha (waning phase of the moon). Married and unmarried women celebrate this festival by praying and observing Teej vrat or fasting. In a few regions, Unmarried girls perform the doll marriage as per tradition for Lord Parvati’s blessings and a perfect groom.

Tradition of Doll Marriage| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Ganguar Gangaur is colorful and one of the most important festivals of the people of Rajasthan and is observed throughout the state with great fervor and devotion by womenfolk who worship Gauri, the wife of Lord Shiva during March–April. It is the celebration of spring, harvest, marital fidelity, and childbearing. Gana is a synonym for Lord Shiva and Gaur which stands for Gauri or Parvati who symbolizes Saubhagya (marital bliss). The unmarried women worship her for being blessed with a good husband, while married women do so for the welfare, health, and long life of their husbands and for a happy married life.

Tradition of Doll Marriage| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Images of Isar and Parvati are made of clay for the festival. Unmarried women along with Isar make the doll of Shiva too or buy a pair sold in markets to perform the doll marraige for happy married life In this celebration, both married and unmarried women take part in the festivities in full enthusiasm, make clay images of Shiva and Parvati, dress them beautifully, offer prayers to them, observe day-long fasts for marital happiness and prepare delightful dishes for the family.

Remembering the tradition

“

My dadi used to make dolls from rags and burada. with the clothes like this. You can find a variety of dolls sold on roads around Teej in Jabalpur. When we used to live in Chhatarpur, our househelp Guddi used to buy these dolls. They used to call it Putra Putariya and her daughter used to play and marry these dolls and later dolls were kept in Shiva mandir of the campus. After some time, dolls were also submerged in water with other pooja things. - Binu Gupta, Homemaker Jabalpur

“

We also used to play with dolls of similar types in our childhood. My mother used to make these from old clothes and sew them for us. I and my sister used to play around with these dolls All year long, arranging parties, their weddings. When I was married to Gwalior, I saw the Batto bai design for the first time. Batto bai designs are different. It has more decoration and is always made in pairs. - Kalpana Parihar, Batto Bai’s Daughter-in-law

“

I am born and brought up in Gwalior. I remember buying these dolls every year around Akha Teej and playing for hours with this gudda gudiya. I remember Batto bais dolls very vividly. I used to live in Daulatganj and it was very near to Batto Bai’s house. Batto Bai was very poor. We used to trade stationery notebooks, pens, and all for the dolls with Batto Bai.

“

- Veena Agarwal, Resident Gwalior, and Scindia school ex warden

“

My neighborhood girls buy putra putariya during Akha Teej. they play for some time and then leave it by the tree side. Nobody marries doll these days. . - Savita, Resident Jabalpur

“ 38

Batto Bai Dolls 39

In the interiors of an old marketplace allied Khurja Wala Mohalla in Gwalior, Batto Bai’s family makes the cloth dolls in pairs. Named after its maker, Batto Bai; doll craft is intricate and traditional. It is a generational craft with a strong cultural and religious connect. It is a toy and game craft made of textiles and paper. Dolls are a symbol of a couple that is married by young girls on the occasion of Akha teej. Currently, the craft is kept alive by its third-generation practitioner Kalpana Parihar, Batto Bai’s Grandson’s wife.

Batto bai dolls are traditionally crafted dolls from rags and bamboo in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. This distinguished craft gets its name from Batto Bai, an enterprising craftswoman who started this doll tradition. Batto Bai’s third-generation family continues to carry forward the legacy of crafting unique dolls. This traditional craft practice is centered in the area of Old Gwalior, Daultganj. This craft is mainly practiced by the women member of the family. Dolls are sold in pairs. The relevance of the pair tradition is related to the “Gudda-Guddiya” concept. Unmarried women widely purchased dolls during “Akshaya Tritiya” and “Akha Teej” and festivals of Gangaur and Hartalika Teej. They then get these pairs married at their homes, hoping to be married themselves soon.

This practice is followed in the Bundelkhand area and the Madhya Pradesh regions near the Rajasthan border. It’s known as “Putra-putariya” in specific areas and “Gudda gudiya” in others. Now local people begin using them for decorating their homes and giving the pair of dolls as a gift to their relatives and friends. After playing with the dolls, some girls abandon them by the side of the tree. The craft gained popularity after recognition from Madhya Pradesh Tourism in its calendar and the Scindia’s of Gwalior.

Facing page Batto Bai Dolls

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Bat oth trav to d foll hig out Batto Bai doll with a foriegn delegate

History of Batto Bai dolls Batto Bai, the maker from whom the dolls get their name, learned the craft from her mother-in-law, and it has been passed down the generations since then. Rajmata Scindia supported Batto Bai, and the Royals further promoted the craft. Batto Bai received national and international acclaim for her unique design and intricate detailing in the dolls.

1967

197

Batto Bai recieves National Award

Batto Bai received the National Award for Handicraft in 1967. Batto Bai’s House was one of the visiting locations for foreign delegates when they came to Gwalior, and her dolls were a crafted gift from the Scindias. Batto Bai doll receiving her National Award

ermany Visit

Naval Kishori receives state award

tto bai, along with seven her National Awardee Artists, veled to Germany in 1978 display their work. In the lowing years, the craft was in gh demand. Dolls were all sold t within days.

Naval Kishori Ji continued to practice the craft alongside Batto Bai and was awarded the State Award from Madhya Pradesh Government in 1990. naval Kishori with her state award in 1990

1980s

1990

Golden Period

Naval Kishori demonstrating doll making

Batto bai, her daughter-in-law, Naval Kishori, and a group of about 20 women used to make dolls all year to meet the demands of Akshay Tritiya. She also used to supply dolls to the Bundelkhand region of Chhatarpur, Rewa, Satna. 44

Kalpana Parihar joins the family

Bharat Singh Parihar, Batto Bai’s grandson, married Kalpana Parihar in 2007. She learned the skill and began practicing alongside Naval Kishori Ji. Kalpana Parihar, Batto Bai’s grandsons wife

1993

2007

201

Batto Bai passes away

Batto bai passed in 1991, which was a setback for the craft, but dolls flourished. Under Naval Kishori’s supervision, the design developed a little according to the cultural setting of the following years. Batto Bai performing the Akha Teej ceremony

Batto Bai dolls 45

MP Tourism Calender

The craft again was put under the spotlight in 2020 after Madhya Pradesh Tourism included it in its annual calendar and published articles about it online. Batto Bai doll pair

10s

2020

Fading Popularity

Over time, the relevance of the ritual of marrying dolls decreased and so did the practice of making dolls too. Due to changes in material culture and the easy availability of more life-like and detailed dolls that are affordable, durable with western aesthetics, demand has fallen in the last fifteen years.

2021 Naval Kishori passes away

Purushottam Sign Parihar and Naval Kishori Parihar

In July 2021, Naval Kishori passed away. Currently, Kalpana Parihar is the sole practitioner of the craft. She continues the legacy of doll making and further introcuced the contemporary look to dolls. 46

Batto Bai Suraj Singh

Daughters

Batto Bai Family

Son

Shakun Meera Baikunthi Narmada Ramdevi

Purushottam Singh Parihar

Son

Naval Kishori Parihar

Son

Rameshwar Singh Parihar

Bharat Singh Parihar

Daughter Kaplana Parihar

Kamini

Son

Pradyum Parihar

Kartik Parihar

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Facing page Kalpana Parihar with her sons in front of family’s house.

Batto Bai family Batto Bai National Awardee Artist 1967 Batto Bai is the founder of this crafting tradition. Her maiden name was Yashoda Bai. She learned it from her mother-in-law, and it has been passed down the generations since then. Her fourthgeneration family members continue the tradition of meticulously making these one-of-a-kind dolls. She passed away in 1991.

Suraj Singh (Batto Bai Husband) He was actively involved in the craft and made dolls with Batto Bai

Purushottam Singh Parihar (Batto Bai’s Son)

He was employed at the Handicraft Department. He got his job because of Batto Bai’s influence in the department.

Naval Kishori Ji ( Batto Bai’s Daughter in Law) State Awardee Artist 1990 She learned the craft from her Mother-in-law. Her daughter-in-law, Kalpana, succeeds her.

Shakun, Meera, Baikunthi (Daughter of Batto Bai)

Narmada (Daughter of Batto Bai) In Gwalior, she was actively involved in dollmaking with Naval Kishori Ji and Kalpana Parihar. Currently, she is not working with Kalpana because of personal conflict and old-age health issues.

Ramdevi ( Daughter of Batto Bai) Ramdevi continued to make and sell Batto Bai dolls in Tikamgarh after marriage.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Bharat Singh Parihar (Batto Bai’s Grandson) He has a painting shop, Bharat Art Shop, to make banners, wall posters, and paintings with his friend Brijesh in Daulat Ganj. He learned the craft from his Maternal Uncle.

Rameshwar Singh Parihar (Grandson)

He Inherited his father’s job and is currently working in the Handicraft Department in Chanderi.

Kamini (Batto Bai’s Granddaughter)

Kalpana Parihar

(Batto Bai’s Grandson’s wife)

She is married, lives in Hata and doesn’t practice the craft.

Learned the craft from her Mother-in-law; she is the current practicing artisan of the craft. Earlier, she used to help her mother-in-law, but after Naval Kishori Ji passed away last year, she is the sole maker of the traditional dolls.

Pradyum Parihar

(Batto Bai’s Great Grandson)

Kartik (Batto Bai’s Great Grandson)

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Batto bai doll makers Women behind the craft

The three generations of daughter-in-laws of a family, Batto Bai, Naval Kishori and Kalpana Parihar continuing the crafting traditions for years.

Batto Bai Named after her, craft gained recognition when Batto Bai was awarded National Award for Craftsmanship by the Indian Government. She learned the craft from her mother-in-law and continued to practice it all her life.

Naval Kishori Parihar She learned the craft from her mother -in-law Batto Bai. and continoed to practice craft till 2021. She was awarded State Award for Craftsmen in 1990 from Madhya Pradesh Government.

Kalpana Parihar She is the daughter-in-law of Naval Kishori and is currently a sole practitioner of the craft. After her marriage, she learned the craft from her mother-in-law and is very proud of her family’s tradition. She has an emotional attachment to the craft, and her attempts to preserve it are admirable.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

About the craft Batto bai dolls are cloth dolls made by women for religious as well as cultural purposes. It is a craft trickled down to more than the third generation of the family of the original maker of the craft Batto Bai. These dolls are made and sold in pairs. The pair culture is linked with the concept of “Gudda Gudiya” i.e. male and female dolls which are supposed to be married. Dolls are extensively made for the Akha Teej festival as the unmarried girls purchase the dolls and wed them. It is believed that the ritual brings their blessings and they get married soon after it. Dolls are made of completely using materials that are - natural, locally available, and inexpensive.

Facing page Batto Bai Dolls set

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Material and Process

Tools 1. 2. 3. 4.

Fabric scissors Decorative cuts scissors Ink Pen Needle

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Fabric scissors, Ink pens, and needles are tools used in the process. Iron scissors with decorative cuts are used for cutting paper with the zig-zag design, which is used for creating jewelry and details on the cloths. The details on the face and hands are added with a black and red ink pen. A few decorative patches are sewn on the dolls’ clothes using a hand needle in the contemporary designs.

4. 7. 2.

5. 3.

8. 6.

Primary Material 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Material for decoration Newspaper Fabric Wooden Stand Decorative paper Bamboo stick Wooden dust Adhesive

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Batto bai dolls are primarily made of fabric, wooden dust, adhesive, bamboo stick, newspaper, wooden stands. Decorative paper of silver and gold colour, beads, and embroidered patches are used for ornamentation and detailing. Materials are locally sourced either for free or for a meager cost as most of the material is discarded material. Material is collected throughout the year, depending on availability before the doll-making season.

Process The process of making the dolls has not changed since Batto Bai. Each doll requires two to three days for making and drying the dolls. An artisan can single-handedly make up to 10-12 dolls in one day.

Preparatory before making the dolls The adhesive is made at home, a week prior to the making process. Water and refined wheat flour are combined to make adhesive. The mixture is then reduced to the appropriate consistency by heating it over a flame. A poison (Neela tota) is applied to prevent the flies from eating it. If left untreated, the adhesive will degrade in a week due to fungus. The fabric required for the making needs to be starched for the stiffness. Coth is startched using rice water at home before the doll making process.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

1. Collected fabric pieces are cut or torn to the required size. One of the pieces, cut for the face, is packed with wood dust.

The sphere is then rolled on the hand to get a uniform shape.

3. Sphere is carefully fastened to ensure the shape.it is again rolled. The head is ready.

To make hands, a bigger piece of fabric is covered with glue. A thick fabric is placed piece on one of its edge.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

The thick piece of cloth is rolled on top of the larger fabric.

7. White cloth is folded and stuck to create the nose.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

White cloth strips are layered with glue.

A piece of cotton rolled with hands is added to create a chin.

11.

White cloth is stuck on the face base and hands.

Detailing facial features using an ink pen.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

10.

The hands are split into fingers by cutting using scissors.

12.

Bamboo sticks are attached to the doll.

13.

Cloths are layered with newspaper for stiffness.

15.

The ghaghra is wrapped on the torso and tied with a cloth strip. along with ornamentation details with paper.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

14.

16.

The bottom cloth is pleated to form ghaghra for both male and female dolls.

The details of clothes are added. In female dolls, pallu is stuck on the head along with details and in male dolls, pagdi is added.

17.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

The doll are left to dry in the sun. After a day, dolls are ready.

Design Evolution Male and Female dolls have the same basic structure; the facial characteristics and clothing distinguish them. Gudda wears a pagdi with a ptaka and kurta set, as well as a tilak. Gudiya is wearing a Ghagra Choli outfit and has a bindi and sindoor on her forehead. In both dolls, the ghagra is identical. The Gudda appears taller than the Guddi as the Padgi adds an extra inch. Dolls are always colour coordinated, and clothes are made of three different colours. The design language is influenced by the Royal family of Gwalior, the Scindia. From the depiction of eyes to the moustache all are represented in the image of the rulers of Gwalior. The Gotta Patti work and the curled moustache are examples of Marwari culture’s impact on the technique. Red, green, yellow, golden, and silver create the dolls in a traditional colour palette. These hues are also associated with the traditional colours of Hindu weddings. In the latest designs by Kalpana Parihar, there are a few changes in the colour palette and fabric used for the clothing.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Left Illustration Scindia Royal attire Right Illustration Batto Bai Male dolls

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

1st Generation design 1950s -1991 Batto Bai Design- In the frame is the Batto Bai design. It has intricate embellishment, including a traditional pallu with a chequered design made of paper. The decorative elements are added using beads. The dolls are very well detailed and the use of paper can be seen to add the effect of gotta patti on clothes and is also used for ornaments. The doll base is a painted stand. The adhesive is used to add details like beads on the forehead and paper on clothes. There are additional decorations such as Nath and Maang Tikka on the bride, while on the groom, there is haar. The bride is also seen clutching a pankha in her hand to provide comfort to the groom. Overall, the design is very traditional and intricately made.

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

2nd Generation design 1960s - 2021 In the frame is the Naval Kishori design. In terms of detailing, this design is relatively simple compared to the preceding one. The ornaments are less and there is no use of beads to represent them. The decorative paper is used to add the details on the dolls. The manner the pallu and patka are knotted has changed. Clothes are less detailed as well. There is no additional element in the design. Colours are from the traditional Indian palette. Small dolls like this one are not attached to the stand, instead, the newspaper is pasted on the clothes before pleating to add stiffness to the dress and stable base for the doll. Every detail is pasted with homemade adhesive.

3rd Generation design 2007 - Till Date In the frame is the Kalpana Parihar design. This is more contemporary in its approach. Different colour palettes and detailed clothes can be seen. The fabric used in these designs is more fluid and has a different texture. Instead of the usual starched cotton, the clothes are made of velvet. The ghagra’s borders are hand sewn with details. The technique has evolved with time as well as the colour palette. As per the size, the stand is added. In the image shown doll is a foot high and thus requires a stand. The detailing of the border is done in a manner to keep the stand visible. The design has retained the essence of original dolls in terms of detailing with a contemporary twist. Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Dolls and extended product range The Dolls are made in pairs and four varying sizes. Apart from traditional practice of making a pair of dolls, newer depression & products have emerged which utilize the traditional skill- set and more or less similar materials & tools, yet addresses the need of the current contemporary market. Dolls are customized for wedding gifts for the guests. Few dolls are made for black magic purposes too. during Mahalakshmi Pooja, the doll’s torso is marketed separately as “Mahalakshmi ke Hath.” This was also produced in response to a request. The horse, historically connected with the Dussehra celebration, was recently added to the 1.

new product list. The horse is sold with the doll pair and is advertised as a “Dulhe ka Ghoda,” or the groom’s sawari. The horses are also available for purchase separately. The price range of dolls products varies from 100 - 650 INR as per size and detailing. Smallest dolls which are in high demand during festive season are sold at 80-100 INR pair. Larger dolls with more details are comparitively expensive and are mostly used for decoration or for playing purposes.

1. Mahalakshmi ke Haath 2. Ghoda in making 3. Dolls in pairs in three different sizes

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Batto Bai male dolls in three sizes

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Batto Bai female dolls in three sizes

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Marketing Channels and distribution The channel of distribution is direct selling, even today. Earlier, the craft was sent to areas of the Bundelkhand region of Satna, Chhatarpur, and Tikamgarh. Batto Bai dolls were once kept at Mrignayani and Sanskriti craft shops, but none of these businesses now keep the dolls due to decreased sales. Around the period of Akha Teej, the craft was sold on the roads around Daulatganj. Dolls are available for purchase among other Festival-related items. Bharat Singh Parihar keeps the dolls at his art shop for direct selling only during Akha Teej. The Madhya Pradesh Handicraft Department recognizes and promotes the Batto bai dolls and the doll maker family is invited to participate in local craft mela’s and other such events. The Handicraft Department invited Kalpana Parihar to sell their dolls at ‘Gramin Hastakala’ in January 2022. These Craft Melas are also one of the outlets for sale. Facing page Bharat Singh Parihar’s Paint Shop in Daulatganj

Challenges and Support Challenges The tradition of marrying dolls is diminishing, and as a result, demand has dropped dramatically, even during high sales periods. Chinese toys and other plastic toys on the market pose a threat. Batto bai dolls do not have a wide range of designs and do not appeal to a modern audience. Because craft sales are declining, it cannot be the family’s only source of income. The sales margin is shrinking, and each year, more and more dolls go unsold.

Batto Bai’s family is doing everything they can to preserve the old skill. At the moment, only Kalpana Parihar is actively practicing the craft. There are very few, willing to learn & practice the craft The artisans have basic education. Thus they are unable to tap the opportunities of the digital market and e-platforms. Only physical distribution channels are used, and there is no marketing for the craft.

Facing page Daulatganj area

Batto Bail Dolls| Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Support Batto Bai dolls are supported by Government as well as non government organisations. Handicraft department recognises the craft and invites the artists to display and sell their craftin craft melas. The department also invited Naval Kishori ji to the Delhi CCRT, Pragati Maidan, and Surajkund Mela. The craft was encouraged by M.P. tourism, which included it in its calendar. Till last year, Batto Bai dolls were available at Mrignayani stores, a unit of Madhya Pradesh Hastshilp Evam Hathkargha Vikas Nigam Ltd.

Batto Bai dolls for the wedding of Chitrangada Raje Scindia, daughter of Madherao Scindia and sister Jyotiraditya Scindia. Dolls were installed at the entrance of the wedding mandap and also at the entrance to welcome their prestigious guests. Dolls were also available at local shops. Last year, Sanskriti Crafts Gwalior was one of the shops that actively displayed the craft.

The Scindia Foundation was instrumental in the craft’s progress. Rajmata Scindia was a strong supporter of Batto Bai and frequently invited her to demonstrate her skill to foreign delegates. Because of the foundation, there were training and workshop opportunities. Naval Kishore family made 5 feet

Facing page Bharat Art Shop

Dolls of Madhya Pradesh 77

Jhabua dolls and Batto Bai dolls are two prominent cloth doll crafts in Madhya Pradesh. There are several parallels between the two crafts. In a few stories, Jhabua dolls were derived from the Batto bai dolls. Later, Jhabua Dolls developed as a craft, incorporating tribal elements and materials. Both dolls have a deep cultural connection and are generally made in pairs. There are also visible differences in the materials used and the crafts’ purpose. A closer look at the Jhabua dolls presents a different aspect of cloth dolls of the state and provides a fresh perspective to Batto Bai dolls.

Introduction to Jhabua Dolls The Jhabua dolls are representations of the various tribes in their vibrant traditional attire. Crafted out of scrap cloth, these dolls also sometimes hold the tools used in the occupation of the tribes they represent. The dolls are made by the tribals of the region and women are majorly involved in the making. They come in various shapes, sizes, and in groups or pairs. Jhabua dolls are gifted to the bride in several parts of the country.

Jhabua Doll maker making the doll Image courtsey Gaatha

The uses are decorative and they serve as a reliable source of income to the craftsmen all year round. The dolls closely resemble the features of tribal living all across the subcontinent, in a way the tribes identify themselves through this craft. It also acts as an informative object for the people living in urban areas, who have never experienced a tribal culture. The material used for Jhabua doll making is a recycled cloth; hence the crafting process involves a sustainable process. The people grew curious about tribal living, citing this; the tribes started making these fabric dolls to represent themselves. The craft was called Adivasi Gudiya Shilp and gained recognition across the world. Jhabua doll makers have applied for the craft to be registered as a Geographical Indicator with the government of India.

Facing page Jhabua Dolls in Making Image courtsey Gaatha

Dolls of Madhya Pradesh | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Comparative study of Jhabua dolls and Batto Bai dolls. Mostly the women member of the community or family practicing the craft makes these dolls in both the crafts. Dolls are gifted to unmarried girls in both communities and are married during the “Akha Teej” Ritual. On both the dolls, facial expressions are painted. Few dolls in both the crafts have a wooden base.

Handpainting facial expressions on Jhabua dolls Image courtsey Gaatha

Dolls of Madhya Pradesh | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Mostly the women member of the community or family practicing the craft makes these dolls in both the crafts. Dolls are gifted to unmarried girls in both communities and are married during the “Akha Teej” Ritual. On both the dolls, facial expressions are painted. Few dolls in both the crafts have a wooden base. Jhabua dolls are made of cloth with wire in hands, legs, and spine, whereas Batto Bai Dolls have bamboo structures, wooden ducts, and rags over them. Clay is used in Jhabua to create a face; the cloth is used in Batto bai to shape the face. Jhabua Dolls are cotton stuffed dolls whereas Batto bai dolls are stuffed with wooden dust. Accessories in Jhabua dolls are made of bamboo, colorful beads, and metal chains where as in Batto Bai dolls, it is made of paper.

One of the women Jhabua Dolls maker Image courtsey Gaatha

Dolls of Madhya Pradesh | Batto Bai Dolls of Gwalior

Jhabua Dolls

Jhabua dolls are bigger and go up to 4ft compared to Batto bai, which are 2ft maximum. Jhabua Dolls are used as souvenirs and are gifted to the bride in several parts of the country. The uses are decorative and they serve as a reliable source of income to the craftsmen all year round. Whereas Batto bai dolls are majorly produced for the ritual of doll marriage in Akha Teej. Cultural identity reflection in both, Jhabua dolls is more developed and detailed. Jhabua dolls depict various cultures in their occupations holding tools they use. Male and female figures have different appearances. In Batto bai doll, the characteristic difference is the “ghoonghat” and “mooch,” which differentiates the two genders. Jhabua Doll making process Image courtsey Gaatha

Conclusion 85

Craft study reflects the current status of the craft, its potential, and legacy. Doll making is a unique tradition that has been part of the culture for ages and so is the tradition of doll marriage. Batto Bai doll craft is the culmination of both aspects of the culture. It has a religious significance but the core of the craft is the art of making from locally sourced material. Batto Bai dolls are a perfect example of the value national recognition of the craftsmen add into the craft as well as in the lifestyle of the craftsmen. With changing times and the world looking for alternatives for plastic toys, Batto Bai dolls is a perfect option for the sustainable future.

Batto Bai Dolls are a dying art form, as only one artisan left who can make it as per the traditional design. The dolls are made completely using natural materials and are an upcycled product with very few purchased material. Handcrafted dolls compete directly with industrial dolls in the mass market and are marketed at far lower prices than their worth. Craft is listed in Madhya Pradesh’s tourism listings and has been recognized by the state government of Madhya Pradesh. The current generation of Artists is trying their best to preserve the craft. Batto Bai dolls are a great alternative to plastic dolls. Designs can be varied and contemporaries to keep the craft alive. There is always going to be a section of craft centered around the ritual and the batto bai original design but diversification can increase Income sources. With diversification, We can’t rule out the possibility that craft loses its essence and visual expression to become more marketable due to increased urbanization. The ray of hope is the effort of Kalpana Parihar to preserve and continue the legacy of her family.

Facing page Batto Bai Name plate

Glossary Gudda Gudiya - The regional name for Pair of dolls (male-female) in parts of Madhya Pradesh Putra Putariya - The regional name for Pair of dolls (male-female) in Bundelkhand region Akha Teej - Festival celebrated by women dedicated to lord Vishnu Neela Tota - A poison Gangaur - Festival celebrated by women dedicated to God Shiva and his wife Gaura Teej - Festival celebrated by women dedicated to Goddess Parvati Nath - An Indian ornament for the nose Tilak - An ornamental spot worn on the forehead chiefly by Hindus as a sectarian mark. Kurta - A long loose garment like a shirt without a collar worn in India. Bindi - A mark (such as a red dot) or piece of jewelry worn on the middle of the forehead, especially by Hindu women. Sindoor - A traditional red or orange cosmetic powder from India, usually worn by Hindu women along the parting of the hair as a sign of marriage. Maang Tikka - An Indian Ornament worn on the forehead by women. Haar - an Indian chained ornament worn around the neck. Peshwa - The chief minister of a Maratha prince. Marwaris - A community in India centered around Rajasthan. Baniya - A community in India that was originally traders. Kundali Dosh - A condition in Indian Horoscope

Indra - Indian god of rain and heaven Mahalakshmi Pooja - Festival celebrated by women dedicated to Goddess Laxmi. Mahalakshmi ke Hath - A doll made for Mahalakshmi Pooja in Maharashtra. Dulhe ka Ghoda - Horse of the groom in the Indian wedding ceremony. Dampati - A married couple Sawari - Conveyance Padgi - An accessory worn by men on their heads made of fabric. Gharana - In Hindustani music of India, a community of performers who share a distinctive musical style that traces to a particular instructor or region. Adivasigudiyashilp - Tribal doll making art Bhadrapada - A time period according to hindu calendar Shukla paksha - The first fortnight between New Moon Day and Full Moon Day. Isar - Goddess Parvati Shiva and Parvati - Hindu god and goddess Mandap - Hindu marriage place setup where the ritual of wedding takes place. Mooch - Moustache Goonghat- Covering head with fabric by Indian women.

Photo Gallery From Batto Bai’s family album... 91

Batto Bai handing over the doll to a visitor in Germany.

Facing page Batto Bai with foriegn delegate. Batto Bai with dolls in a workshop. 92

Batto Bai’s daughter pleating the cloth for the doll’s clothes.

Top Batto Bai with other artisans in Berlin,Germany.

Bottom Batto Bai in Germany in a meeting with a foriegn delegate. 93

Batto Bai with other artisans and officers. 94

Batto Bai’s with her daughters performing the Akha Teej ceremony with dolls

Batto Bai’s daughters performing the Akha Teej ceremony with dolls

Batto Bai’s with dolls in Akha Teej ceremony

Batto Bai presenting doll in a handicraft exhibit

Facing page Batto Bai with a female doll Batto Bai showcasing the dolls 98

Naval Kishori making the doll torso

Top Naval kishori demonstrating doll making.

Bottom Naval kishori teaching kids to make Batto Bai dolls 99

Naval Kishori showcasing the art of doll making. 100

Bibliography ‌‌Craft Documents Gupta Shreya, 2018, Pehchan Batto Bai Gudiya se, National Institute of Design, Gandhinagar

Webliography Wikipedia. (2021). Gwalior. [online] < https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwalior > Nabhivarsha 2021, Top Traditional Toys of India, June 30 2021, <https://blog.nabhivarsha.art/tag/toys/ > MP Tourism 2020, Batto Bai Dolls - Preserving the Heritage of Handicrafts, MP Tourism, viewed December 14 2021, <https://www.mptourism.com/batto-bai-dolls.html> Shik Dhahakad 2020, Batto Bai Dolls: Handicraft of Gwalior, blog post, Routes From Roots, December 14 2021, <https://shikhadhakad.blogspot.com/2020/05/batto-bai-dolls-handicrafts-of-gwalior.html?spref=pi> Patel, Z. (2019). Tradition: The dolls’ wedding. [online] DAWN.COM. < https://www.dawn.com/ news/1502575 > viewed March 01 2022 ‌ omen’s Web: For Women Who Do. (2018). What The Childhood Game Of “Marriage Of Dolls” Told Me W Of Indian Marriages! [online] <https://www.womensweb.in/2018/05/when-the-childhood-game-of-marriage-of-dolls-proved-to-be-asymbol-of-sorts > viewed March 01 2022 ‌ atters India. (2016). Traditional doll marriage performed. [online] <https://mattersindia.com/2016/04/ M traditional-doll-marriage-performed/ > viewed March 01 2022

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neeru (2015). Introduction. [online] D’Source. <https://www.dsource.in/resource/dolls-jhabua/introduction >[Accessed 15 Dec. 2021]. IndiTales 2014, Handmade Dolls of Jhabua, Bhagoria Festival of Bhil Tribes, YouTube, 23 September, viewed December 14 2021, <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SH9jFB3AlI > NDTV.com. (n.d.). Dolls Were “Wed” In Karnataka’s Hubli For “Good Rains, Good Luck.” [online] <https://www.ndtv.com/karnataka-news/dolls-wed-in-karnatakas-hubli-for-good-rains-good-luck1869805#:~:text=%22It%20is%20believed%20that%20when > viewed March 01 2022. www.nid.edu. (n.d.). National Institute of Design. [online] <https://www.nid.edu/home > viewed March 05 2022 ‌ osaic designs.in. (n.d.). NID Ahmedabad: NID Admissions 2021-22. [online] <https://mosaicdesigns.in/ m blog/nid-in-ahmedabad > viewed March 05 2022. gaatha.org. (2014). Doll Making~Jhabua - Craft Archive | Research on Indian Handicrafts & Handloom. <https://gaatha.org/Craft-of-India/handmade-doll-making/ > [Accessed 16 Dec. 2021]. Britannica, Gwalior, viewed March 04, 2022, < https://www.britannica.com/place/Gwalior-India > MP Tourism, Melodic, MP Tourism, viewed March 04, 2022, <https://www.mptourism.com/destinationgwalior.php >

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