Gond Tribal Painting of Madhya Pradesh

Gond painting originates in Dindori and Mandla districts where artists fill figures of animals, trees, and spirits with intricate dot-and-dash patterns. Traditionally painted on walls using colours from charcoal, cow dung, limestone, and leaves. Contemporary Gond artists like Jangarh Singh Shyam introduced the art to paper and canvas, winning national recognition. Motifs include the peacock, tiger, snake, and sacred trees. Each dot and line carries symbolic meaning tied to forest ecology. Artists earn through urban galleries and craft fairs; Padma Shri awardees have internationalised the form.