The state of Chhattisgarh, located in center-east of India is a region with enriched historical connections. Along with the western part of Odisha, the state of Chhattisgarh formed the ancient historical region 'Dakshin Kosala'. The region has witnessed the reign of several renowned historical dynasties like Sarabhpurias, Panduvanshi, Somvanshi, Kalchuris, Chalukyas, and Nagvanshi. Towards the end of 16th century, the state came under the control of Mughals. Around 1758, the state came under the Marathas. From 1845 to 1947, the region was under British rule.

​

​

Being located in the Deccan biogeographical area, the state is home to rich biodiversity. Around 44% of the total area of the state is covered by forests. The famous Dandakaranya forest of Ramayana comprised of Bastar region of Chhattisgarh along with regions of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Telengana and Andhra Pradesh.

 

 

The state is also home to about 10% Scheduled Tribe population of India. One-third of the state population is tribal while another 16% belongs to scheduled castes and other 42% are from backward castes. The most prominent tribes of Chattisgarh are Gonds, Rajgonds, Bhatras, Dhurwas, Dorla, Gadabas, Halbas, Muria, Abujh-Muria, Bison Horn Muria, Baigas. The vibrant cultural life of Chhattisgarh is represented by several visual and performing art forms. Major musical traditions of the state are Pandavani singing, Chandeni, and Bharthari. Dance forms like Panthi, Nacha, Gond, Damkach, Bhagoriya, Gaur Muria, Saila, Dandari, Karma, Chaitra, Gendi, Phag, Lota etc. forms the cultural basis for tribal life of the state. There are several forms of visual arts rooted in this region on which we have focussed most in this website.