Rajasthan's Renowned Kavad Art Faces Extinction: A Call to Preserve Heritage

• Rajasthan's internationally acclaimed Kavad art, a traditional folk art, is now on the verge of disappearing.
• Originating in Bassi village, Chittorgarh, in 1652 by Prabhat Ji Suthar, Kavad art involves creating portable wooden temples with mythological depictions.
• The art form requires three types of artisans: wood artisans for structure, painters for illustrations, and 'Bhats' (storytellers) to narrate the tales.
• Illustrations typically feature stories from Ramayana, Mahabharata, and folk tales; National Award winner Dwarika Prasad Jangid is a prominent artist.
• Artists are adapting Kavad art with educational and social awareness themes to keep it relevant and prevent its complete disappearance.

Why It Matters: Rajasthan's unique Kavad art, a rich cultural heritage, is endangered, requiring urgent preservation efforts.