Bhubaneswar: Paintings created on palm leaves, fine silk, and other materials, including Saura paintings from Odisha, are among the main highlights of the exhibition “One Region, One Product – Tribal Artifacts of India”, which opened recently in the Bulgarian city of Pernik as part of the cultural programme of the 32nd International Festival of Masquerade Games “Surva”.
The Saura paintings, a traditional tribal art form from Odisha, are known for their symbolic storytelling and depictions of everyday life. Several works on display portray scenes of agriculture, festivals, rituals, hunting, and community gatherings, reflecting the close link between indigenous traditions and living cultural heritage.
The exhibition has been organised by the Embassy of India in Sofia in cooperation with the East-West Indological Foundation, and is being hosted at the Mining Directorate building. It marks the first time the exhibition is being presented outside Bulgaria’s capital.
The exhibition was inaugurated by Soni Dahiya, Second Secretary at the Embassy of India, who thanked the Municipality of Pernik for its partnership and support.
Speaking on the occasion, she said the showcase presents the material culture of more than 700 officially recognised tribes in India, offering visitors insights into their daily lives, rituals, spirituality, and social identity.
“I thank the Municipality of Pernik for the hospitality and assistance in reaching a wider audience outside the capital. Through it, we present the wealth of the material culture of over 700 officially recognized tribes in India – their daily lives, rituals, spirituality, and social identity. Each exhibit tells a story of unique artistic traditions, languages , and customs preserved over the centuries,” Dahiya stated.
The exhibition will remain open until the end of January.
