Bannuram of Chhattisgarh Among the Six Master Craftspeople Selected from Across the Country
Raipur. Bannuram Baid, a traditional Dhokra (bell-metal) artisan from Barkai village in Makdi development block of Kondagaon district, has been selected for the prestigious Shilp Guru Award 2025 for his contribution to preserving and promoting Bastar’s traditional Dhokra craft. His name features in the final selection list issued by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, New Delhi. A total of six master craftspeople from across the country have been selected for the award.
Bannuram Baid’s selection was finalised at a meeting of the Central-Level Selection Committee held on July 18, 2026. He has made significant contributions to preserving Bastar’s ancient Dhokra craft, which is based on the traditional lost-wax technique, promoting it at the national level and training the younger generation in this traditional art form.
His artworks vividly depict the tribal life, folk culture, deities and natural surroundings of Bastar. Through his work, Shri Baid has helped preserve the region’s cultural heritage and traditional techniques, playing an important role in carrying forward Bastar’s distinctive craft traditions.
His selection for the Shilp Guru Award is a matter of pride for Kondagaon district, Chhattisgarh and the entire Bastar region. The recognition is expected to encourage artisans engaged in traditional handicrafts and inspire younger generations to preserve and promote their cultural heritage.
