ontinuity of indigenous architectural knowledge system of bhil community in its original and migrated settlements in Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

Protecting Architectural knowledge system (A.K.S) of an indigenous community needs to record and document the tangible expressions of architecture as well as understand the relationship of those tangible expressions with the intangible cultural values of the community. Much of this indigenous knowledge and traditional construction methods continues to be shared within communities at a very informal level, passed on to the next generation by informal conversations, and by cyclic routines of maintenance & erection of houses and other community structures. The study aims to develop guidelines for continuity of A.K.S of Bhil community in Madhya Pradesh. Bhils have a unique indigenous culture which is revealed in a way that people have built and designed their houses. Bhil dwelling reflects their A.K.S which is developed through many generations with socio – cultural and geographical aspects as well as surrounding environment. Traditionally Bhils do not built any structures except their houses. They use open spaces in village for festivals and other community gatherings. The study investigates continuity, evolution and transformations of A.K.S in original as well as migrated settlements of Bhils in Madhya Pradesh. Houses from villages of Jhabua as original settlements and various settlements around Bhopal city which are migrated settlements of Bhils, have been studied for the same. Firstly it inquires the tangible aspects of A.K.S which are settlement pattern, spatial layout, materials & construction techniques, joinery details & measurement system prevailing in original settlements of Jhabua. It also defines intangible aspects of A.K.S which are cultural values, practices and belief system of Bhil community. Further it examines same for the migrated settlements around the Bhopal city. The methodology used for this site study was adapted by keeping architectural as well as cultural practices as a major focus. It includes preparation of inventory, questionnaire, and informal interviews with the people who have practiced & have knowledge about the traditional construction system, on site observations, partially measured documentation and photo documentation of the Bhil houses. Information about local knowledge regarding material use and construction process is obtained through observable facts and comparative analytical questions to local builders about materials and construction process. Study also include the importance of everyday life, belief system, rituals, social practices as well as other cultural expressions linked with their architecture as a part of the A.K.S. Presently the A.K.S of Bhils in their original as well as migrated settlements is undergoing a process of evolution as well as transformation. The study emphasizes on parameters and factors shaping and impacting the architectural knowledge system. It further analyzing the factors which transforms the architectural knowledge system and suggests the guidelines for the continuity of the same. The current national policy on tribals is taken as framework for the proposals.