Godna, also known as Khoda, is an ancient traditional form of tattoo art originating from the tribal communities of Northern and Central India, and present in their diasporas.[1][2][3] These tattoos are characterized by intricate designs and vivid colors, often depicting elements of nature, mythology, and daily life.[4][5] They are exclusive to women.[6][7]
History
The art of Godna dates back several centuries and has its roots in the cultural practices of tribal communities in India, and a connection to Hinduism.[8] It is traditionally practiced by women and often involves passing down techniques and designs through generations, with style differences between cultural groups.[9][10][11] Tattooing is found in many Scheduled Tribe groups like Baigas, Oraons, Birhors, Saharias, Bhunjias, Asurs, Bhumijas, Mal Paharias, Korwas, Mundas, Santals, Konda Reddis, Khondas, Chenchus, Bharias, Kurumbas, Irulas, Bondos, Juangs, Mankidias, Sauras, Lodhas, Mudugars, Paniyans, Kattunayakans, Mannans, Muthuvans, Kanikkarans, Todas, Bhoksas, Rajis, etc.[12][13]
Since certain diaspora were transported to the Caribbean as indentured servants to work on British and Dutch plantations as coolies, there are people of Indian descent in Guyana and Suriname who carry on the tradition of Godna.[14]
Significance
Bhunjias are noted as believing that their Godna will remain with them spiritually even after they die.[15]
Godna can indicate wealth and social status.[16] In Caribbean communities, Godna was mentioned as needed for marriage, and as symbolizing subjugation of a wife to her husband.[17]
Modern Day
Among Baiga women, popularity of Godna is decreasing, due to the pain of getting it. Godna can also be viewed with prejudice by those who perceive it as primitive or antiquated.[18]
Gallery
References
- ↑ Godna Painting. www.artsofindia.in. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Santal Tribal Tattoos- The Wealth of afterlife. - Santals.com, Hembram, Dipali(2021-03-27). Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Embodying dependency: Caribbean godna (tattoos) as female subordination and resistance. The Journal of Latin American and Caribbean Anthropology({Template:Date).
- ↑ Godna | Art & Culture. jharkhandculture.com. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Godna : Tattoo Art by women of the Baiga tribe | INTACH Intangible Cultural Heritage. Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Anthropological Perspectives of Art and Tattoo: With Special Reference to Bhunjia Tribe of Chhattisgarh. Indian Journal of Research in Anthropology({Template:Date).
- ↑ Tribal Tattoo Art Godna Losing Charm. The Indian Tribal(24 June 2024). Retrieved 21 June 2025.
- ↑ Embodying dependency: Caribbean godna (tattoos) as female subordination and resistance. The Journal of Latin American and Caribbean Anthropology({Template:Date).
- ↑ Tribal Tattoo Art Godna Losing Charm, Niyogi, Deepanwita Gita. The Indian Tribal(2024-06-24). Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Godna Art and the Tattooed Baiga Tribal Women of Madhya Pradesh, India. Random Scribblings(2022-04-21). Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ How The Godna Project Is Bringing The Indigenous Tattoo Artists To The Forefront, Bara, Pushpika Sapna. Adivasi Lives Matter(2022-10-11). Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Godna: The ancient tribal art of Tattooing, Biswas, Rachita. PopBaani(2021-07-15). Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Tribal Tattoo Art Godna Losing Charm, Tribal, The Indian. The Indian Tribal(2024-06-24). Retrieved 2024-09-26.
- ↑ Embodying dependency: Caribbean godna (tattoos) as female subordination and resistance. The Journal of Latin American and Caribbean Anthropology({Template:Date).
- ↑ Anthropological Perspectives of Art and Tattoo: With Special Reference to Bhunjia Tribe of Chhattisgarh. Indian Journal of Research in Anthropology({Template:Date).
- ↑ Template:Cite thesis
- ↑ Embodying dependency: Caribbean godna (tattoos) as female subordination and resistance. The Journal of Latin American and Caribbean Anthropology({Template:Date).
- ↑ Tribal Tattoo Art Godna Losing Charm, Tribal, The Indian. The Indian Tribal(2024-06-24). Retrieved 2024-09-26.