PARBHANI

Rangoli is a traditional decorative art form commonly practiced across India, involving the creation of intricate patterns on the ground using colored powders, rice flour, or flower petals. In Parbhani, as in other parts of Maharashtra, rangoli is an integral part of cultural and religious celebrations, often seen during festivals such as Diwali, Sankranti, and Ganesh Chaturthi.

In recent years, Parbhani has also seen rangoli being used for large-scale public artworks. A notable example occurred in 2023, when a massive rangoli spanning approximately 55,000 sq ft. was created to commemorate the 132nd birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. This project, involving 16 local students over seven days and utilizing 12 tonnes of colored powder, exemplified the scale and social relevance that rangoli can attain in contemporary contexts. While traditional rangoli remains a household and community practice, such large-scale renditions highlight how the art form continues to evolve, serving both decorative and commemorative purposes in public spaces.

Khadi spinning and weaving have historically been part of Parbhani’s artisanal landscape, particularly in the Basmath, Jintur, and Parbhani talukas. Artisans employed traditional tools such as charakhas  (spinning wheels), kisan charakhas, rechas, and hatmags (handlooms) for the production of khadi cloth and yarn. It is noted in the district Gazetteer (1967), that these items were marketed through khadi bhandars accredited by the All-India Khadi and Village Industries Commission.

Khadi production was often seasonal, with agriculturists engaging in spinning and weaving during the summer months, when agricultural activity was minimal. While the craft faced challenges due to industrialization and shifting economic patterns, it remained a source of supplementary livelihood and held cultural significance within the region’s textile traditions.

Wool weaving, mainly practiced by the Dhangar community, was once a key craft in Parbhani. It is mentioned in the district Gazetteer (1967), that many clusters tied to this craft were centered in Gangakhed taluka with hubs in localities like Essad, Ukhali, and Bhalkudki. In the early 1900s, hundreds were employed in this craft, handling all stages—from sheep shearing to weaving kambalis (wool blankets).

Artisans used pit looms, vahis (reeds), and bobbins, with shearing done in October–November. Wool weaving followed a seasonal cycle, with artisans returning to farming during the monsoon. Economic challenges over time led to its decline, but the Dhangar community’s contributions, in many ways, still remain culturally significant.

Pathri, a small town in Parbhani district, is believed by some to be the birthplace of Sai Baba, a respected sant. But beyond its spiritual side, Pathri was once known for its strong connection to the performing arts. In the 20th century, it became a popular place for local theater and cultural gatherings.

Unlike big city theaters, Pathri’s theater scene was made up of a small rangmanch which was a simple open-air stage, built on a stone platform. Still, it drew large crowds. It is mentioned in an article by Sakal that people came from nearby villages, many arriving on bullock carts, to watch plays and performances.

In the 1980s, drama became a major form of entertainment in the town. During Ganesh Mahotsav, held near Godavari Dairy’s Sugar Karkhana, the rangmanch hosted a mix of performances. These included orchestras, Marathi plays like Lagnachi Bedi, and traditional forms such as abhangas and Lavani. Artists like Nilu Phule, Mohan Joshi, and Madhu Kambikar were among those who performed here, supported by the Karkanya Ganesh Mandal.

In later years, performances at the rangmanch became less frequent. The space still remains, but much of its earlier activity is now recalled through memories of past events and the people who once gathered there.

Prahlad Pawar is an artist based in Parbhani who uses pebbles from the Godavari River to create small works carrying social messages. His painted stones include slogans from government campaigns like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” and public health messages during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pawar works with his family, selecting pebbles for their shape and texture before painting them. His art aims to spread awareness using natural materials in a simple, accessible form.

Pramod Ubale is known for making small, detailed artworks with unusual materials. One of his most well-known pieces is a tiny 1×1 cm painting of Ganpati Bappa on a betel nut, which took about two hours to finish.

Ubale also makes rangoli, sketches, and art from paper cups. His work mixes traditional subjects with new ideas, showing how art can be made from everyday items in creative ways.