A Day in The Life of Bhil Artist Dhuli Katara  

In our new section Samay: Reclaiming Time, we consider how the clock moved differently across the Indian subcontinent before the Industrial Revolution.

In ancient India, time was understood as cyclical rather than linear, kaal that encompasses the cosmic dance of creation and destruction. And it includes the nuance and intimacy of daily ritual.

Time flowed with the monsoons, pulsed with temple bells, and breathed with the natural rhythms of land and season.

For the first in A Day in the Life series, Beejliving speaks to Dhuli Katara, Bhil Artist, 26 yrs, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on what her day looks like.

A day in the life immortalised in art

I woke up at 5 am and brushed my teeth. Then I washed the clothes and put them out to dry. I combed my hair and swept the floor, and prayed. After that, I cooked, fed the children, and finished a painting. We went out together. My husband and I fought. Finally, I put the kids to sleep. My favorite part of the day is painting, spending time with my children, and taking care of them.

Her life as an artist

It’s been nearly six years since I learnt Bhil art from my husband. I finish all my house work first, and then if I find the time then I’ll paint. My family helps me a lot, and they always compliment my work. I love painting animals and also depicting my culture through Bhil art. That’s how my designs are different from others.

Being a part of the exhibition Mentoring Magic showcased at Mumbai’s Gallery 47-A supported by Project Tarasha

At first, I didn’t even know how to use a mobile phone. Then the team, including artist and product designer Aditi Prakash, the founder of accessory brand Pure Ghee Designs, led the mentorship, taught me everything I know about using technology. Before, all my paintings would look the same. Now using new mediums and techniques, each of my paintings has a new thought and artistry.

You can buy her artworks at Baro Art.