Adivart Tribal & Folk Art Museum in Khajuraho : From Village Houses to Museum Marvels

When we set out to explore the Adivart Tribal Museum in Khajuraho one sunny afternoon, little did we know that we were about to embark on a journey that would transport us deep into the vibrant world of Madhya Pradesh's indigenous tribes. This museum, nestled in the heart of Khajuraho, is a treasure trove of cultural richness, offering visitors a two-fold experience. Divided into two parts, it houses a mesmerising tribal village showcasing the homes of seven major tribes of Madhya Pradesh and an immersive museum that delves into the lives, art and culture of these fascinating communities.

A Tribal House Tour 

Our journey began with a visit to the tribal village, where we had the privilege of stepping into the homes of seven prominent tribes: Bhil, Gond, Bharia, Kol, Sahariya, Baiga and Korku. Each house was a living testament to the tribe's unique way of life and their profound connection with nature.

The Bhil tribe's house welcomed us with open arms, adorned with vibrant Bhil paintings that covered its walls. Every corner of the house was meticulously equipped with utensils, furniture and tools that reflected the Bhil people's daily existence. Terracotta utensils and grain cleaning tools highlighted their deep-rooted connection with Mother Nature.

Moving on to the Gond tribe's house, we were captivated by Bhitti Chitr, the intricate wall art that adorned their home. Among the treasures within was a fascinating ancient GPS - Khatkhata, used to track their cattle. We also discovered Doriya, a beautifully covered basket used during weddings to send food from the bride's side. Ancient musical instruments like Chikara, an ancestor of the guitar, showcased the tribe's rich artistic heritage.

Baiga houses, often built around a central courtyard, are characterised by a triangular roof and high fences to protect against wild animals. The wooden doors and clay wall decorations showcase the craftsmanship of the Baiga people. As we explored the Baiga house, we had the pleasure of witnessing Savni Ji, a national awardee, diligently coating the floor with cow dung, a tradition upheld every 2-3 days to maintain cleanliness. Savini Ji decorated the walls herself and her artistry added a special charm to the house.

The House of Bharias was constructed using wood, straw and bamboo sheets, which the tribe actually source from nearby forests. Bharias, a.k.a. the masters of handcrafted homes, construct their abode in flat regions. The house had a big room with a kitchen on one side. The room was divided into compartments made of clay and bamboo sheets.

Kol house was made using mud and straw and is called 'Madhia' or hut. The abodes of the Kol tribe are designed to encourage group living. Each house is divided into compartments, housing the kitchen, sleeping area and essential daily items.

Sahariya hut was constructed from straw, bamboo, wood and mud walls that perfectly reflected their minimalist yet functional approach to life. Sahariya women, renowned for their decorative artistry, adorned the walls with beautiful clay motifs.

The house of Korku was the only two-storeyed house with a carved 'mohra' door with two frames that opened to Osari, the living room, which was a long and big room. One of the best features of the Korku house was the unique layout with three main parts: Tala Osari- the front, Manjota - the middle part, and Tala Ura - the back part. Manjota was divided into two parts- in which one part Baranda or Dana Kholi was a windowless room for keeping grains, which can be entered only from the back of a kitchen.

A Dive into Tribal Culture at the Museum

After immersing ourselves in the tribal village, we made our way to the museum within the same premises. The vibrant Sanja Art welcomed us into a world of jewellery, tattoos and every detail of tribal life in Madhya Pradesh. The museum provided an in-depth understanding of these culturally enriched communities, showcasing their paintings, musical instruments and the simplicity with which they embrace life.

The captivating displays included intricate dolls that depicted the tribes' contented lives with minimal resources and their innovative use of nature's gifts. The museum also featured striking images showcasing the tribes' beautiful existence.

For those looking to savour the flavours of Madhya Pradesh, the museum also has a canteen that serves Bundeli Cuisines like Dubri, Murka, and Kucha, all made using Mahua. Visitors can also indulge in some retail therapy at Chinhari, the museum's souvenir shop, which offers a variety of handicrafts, including bell metal, Gond paintings, Pithora paintings, and more.

Additionally, the museum hosts various exhibitions, allowing visitors to delve even deeper into the rich culture of Madhya Pradesh's tribal communities.

A visit to the Adivart Tribal Museum in Khajuraho is not just a sightseeing experience; it's a journey into the soul of Madhya Pradesh's tribal culture. It's an opportunity to appreciate the rich diversity, simplicity and artistry that define these indigenous communities. So, if you find yourself in Khajuraho, don't miss the chance to embark on this enriching cultural adventure.

Entry Fee and Timings

Entry Fees: Rs. 20/- per Indian Visitor, Rs. 400/- per Foreigner.

Camera Charges: Rs 100/- per Camera.

Timings: 12:00 Noon to 8 PM. Closed on Mondays and Government of India Declared Holidays.

For detailed information about this museum, visit: https://www.aadivartmuseum.in/