The Art of Likhai: Unveiling the Intricacies of Traditional Wood Carving

Introduction

Excellent illustration of the rich cultural legacy of the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, India, Likhai is a highly ancient and revered wood carving art form. Apart from decoration, the art form is essential component of the architectural framework of Kumaoni houses since it covers doors, windows, pillars, and furniture with complex designs reflecting the sense of aesthetics and historical records of the area. Based on centuries of custom, Likhai stresses the utmost degree of mastery and knowledge among the local craftsmen, who have painstakingly polished their techniques and skills over decades. Usually, carving requires a thorough awareness of the nature of wood and a rigorous respect of the conventional methods defining this art. Artisans are often inspired by the local flowers, animals and mythological symbols, giving every piece its cultural and religious connotation and relating to stories shared by the collective identity of the community.

Likewise, likhai is also interconnected with the area’s history and mythology, allowing us a distinct window into kumaoni belief and values. Every carving is a reflection of the artist’s passion and imagination, making likhai not just an art form but also an integral part of the cultural fabric that defines the identity of the kumaon region. Through the preservation and promotion of likhai, there is hope that generations to come will still appreciate and perpetuate this art form.

 

Origin of the Art Form

The craft thrived in the Kumaon region, which is a geopolitically important area that facilitated cultural exchange with neighboring regions, i.e., Tibet and Nepal. The cultural exchange with these cultures imparted varied influences and techniques to Likhai, which added to its richness and beauty.

The word “Likhai” is double in meaning; it is literally a “writing” in Hindi but, in the context of wood carving Kumaoni, is specifically the designs and patterns finely cut in diverse woods. Carvings take the shape of local wildlife and plants and even motifs which possess cultural and spiritual meanings, attesting to the deep connection that the artisans feel with their habitat. Likhai has changed over time, retaining its traditional nature but also conforming to modern art forms, and thus it is a special branch of Indian art that still fascinates and inspires.

How it flourished

Likhai, one of the older forms of deeply detailed wood sculpture, flourished during the days of the Chand dynasty in Kumaon division of Uttarakhand. The art and craft was not only a show of inventiveness but also a vital component of the cultural life that royal families, who encouraged outstanding artists to develop their work and talent, helped to acquire significant patronage of. They turned temples, palaces, and homes into works of art by deftly carving complex designs used in adornment.

Themes in Likhai had their deep origin in the colourful mythology and lore of the natives. Artisans tended to take inspiration from diverse subjects and thereby produced sculptures in which various gods and goddesses, mystifying mythical figures, and abstract florals merged within the confines of the regional nature. These designs carried not only religious and cultural myths but also connected the artisans to their people’s spiritual heritage.

Furthermore, the use of materials was crucial in the individuality of Likhai. Highly skilled workers primarily used native timbers like Sal, Tun, and Chir pine, each for their strength and aesthetics. The design of specialized tools and creative techniques in carving also enabled these artisans to master their craft, with distinct textures and details that revealed the wood’s natural beauty. Combined, the above considerations rendered a prolific body of Likhai that now ranks as an affectionate kind of art favored by the country’s cultural legacy.

Likhai Art Making Process

The process of making Likhai art is extremely delicate and involves high skill and accuracy. The Likhai art creation process is described here methodically:

Step 1: Getting the wood ready 

Getting the wood ready comes first in creating Likhai art. This means selecting the suitable kind of wood, cutting it into the correct size and form, and getting the surface ready to create a smooth canvas for the design.

Step 2: Creating the Stencil

The pattern is drawn on the wood from a stencil created with the design of choice. For the craftsman carving the complex patterns and designs on the wood, this stencil serves as a guide.

Step 3: Carving the Wood

The artisan employs a selection of chisels to shape the wood, removing excess wood slowly to expose the pattern. It is held at an angle to the wood’s surface, and with the concave side pointing downwards.

Step 4: Carving the Pattern
The craftsman employs various sizes of chisels in trying to cut out the design, creating intricate designs with patterns. The chisel is employed in a bid to hammer, cut, and engrave the pattern indicated.

Step 5: Smoothing and Polishing
Sandpaper is used to polish and smooth the outside of the wood once the carving is finished. This process removes flaws or rough edges.

Step 6: Sealing with a Natural Oil
Lastly, the wood is water-proofed, termite-proofed, and insect-proofed by the artisan applying a natural oil. This process safeguards the wood and makes it longer lasting.

Tools and Techniques

Various tools and techniques are utilized by the Likhai artisans in designing their beautiful work. Following are some of the tools that are used:

– Chisels: Used for carving and engraving the wood.
– Gouges: Used for removing the extra wood and curved surfaces.
– Mallet: Used for hitting the chisel and gouge.
– Sandpaper: Used for polishing and smoothening the wood.

Details about the Motifs

These are the motifs almost always witnessed in Likhai carvings:

1. Goddesses and Gods

Ganesha is the deity of good luck fortune, prosperity, and knowledge. He is often portrayed as the eradicator of all barriers. Often represented with four arms symbolizing the four directions.

Goddess Lakshmi: She is the embodiment of wealth and fortune.

Lord Vishnu is the embodiment of the quality of preservation, protection and harmony, and is frequently shown in many forms, such as Narasimha or Krishna Deities appear frequently in the elaborate carvings and the detail and skill of the artisans are on display.

2. Floral Patterns

Lotus : A depiction of spiritual growth and beauty. This flower is often intricately carved to display its delicate petals.

Rosettes symbolize harmony balance and unity. They are often used in combination with other floral patterns to create a rhythm and flow.

Floral patterns in particular are common for imparting a sense of harmony and balance to the carvings. They are often combined with other motifs to give the design as a whole aesthetic appeal.

3. Mythical Creatures
Serpents often are used to depict renewal, transformation, shield, and they are included in several detailed carving displaying their long and slender bodies. Mythical creatures are utilized to add a hint of myth and drama to the carvings. They are frequently represented in complex patterns, which display the artisan’s skill and imagination.

4. Geometric Designs
Geometric patterns are the basis for creating a symmetrical order. They are often found in combination with other styles, creating beautiful designs on the doors, windows, and pillars of Kumaon homes. These motifs are often combined in innovative ways to create unique, and intricate designs. The use of these motifs in Likhai carvings showcases the artisan’s skill, attention to detail and creativity.

Current Status

Sadly, the art of Likhai is on the decline because of several reasons, such as:

– Modernization: With the advent of new materials and methods of construction, there have been fewer people wanting old wood carvings.

– Urbanization and Migration: Most artisans and craftsmen have migrated to the cities in search of better jobs, and therefore the population of skilled craftsmen has dwindled.

However, attempts are being made to revive and promote the growth of Likhai, including:

1. Government Programs : The National Mission on Himalayan Studies initiated projects to promote artisans and support the craft.

2. Private Organizations : Private Organizations like Himal Prakrit are engaged in Likhai promotion artisans and support the craft.

3. Tourism : Increased Popularity of cultural tourism has created new opportunities for artisans to sell their craft and for tourists to interact with the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Likhai, a woodcarving traditional craft of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon valley, is an expression of the state’s cultural heritage. Despite its decline, attempts are on to revive and promote the art through government schemes, private sector organizations, and tourism initiatives. The value of Likhai is not merely aesthetic, preserving cultural heritage, depicting artisan skills, and sustaining the local economy. To ensure that it becomes sustainable, traditional methods need to be documented, artisans need to be helped, and cultural tourism encouraged. Let’s come together and save Likhai and make it sustainable for years to come, celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.

 

Reference

https://www.thejugaadproject.pub/home/likhai-wood-carving
https://thefolktales.com/likhai-craftsmen-of-uttarakhand

Likhai – The intricate craft work of Uttarakhand | Kumaoni tradition

Likhai/Wood Carving of Uttarakhand

https://www.academia.edu/83487538/Likhai_A_journey_through_the_craft_of_wood_carving

The Disappearing Craft of “Likhai”(Wood Carving)

https://www.academia.edu/44746605/Likhai