Symbolism, Ritual, and Continuity: A Socio-Cultural Interpretation of Kumaoni Folk Art Aipan

Title

Symbolism, Ritual, and Continuity: A Socio-Cultural Interpretation of Kumaoni Folk Art Aipan

Creator

Kalra, Preeti; Harikrishnan, R.

Description

The chapter aims to explore Aipan, a traditional floor art form of the Kumaoni people in Uttarakhand. It examines Aipan as a cultural practice that encompasses symbolism, rituals, gender roles, and oral traditions. The chapter uses insights from folklore studies, anthropology, and cultural theory to study the visual language and social-religious importance of Aipan motifs. It will also examine how these motifs, which are rooted in Brahmanical tradition but maintained through folk practices, represent personal and community identities. Aipan is not just an art form; it is a culturally meaningful practice that conveys cosmological, spiritual, and social stories. In a time when tradition is both being revived and diluted in the modern market, the chapter will also discuss how Aipan is changing to fit todays consumer culture thus addressing important questions about preservation, change, and authenticity. 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing.

Source

Global Perspectives on Indigenous Oral Traditions;pp.243-266

Date

01-01-2025

Publisher

IGI Global

Coverage

Kalra P., Christ University, India; Harikrishnan R., Christ University, India

Rights

Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library

Relation

ISBN: 979-833733929-0; 979-833733927-6;

Format

online

Language

English

Type

Book chapter

Identifier

https://doi.org/10.4018/979-8-3373-3927-6.ch010

https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105020132108?origin=resultslist