A Bhil Ritual - Gal Bapsi

Titled ‘A Bhil Ritual – Gal Bapsi’, this painting by tribal artist Pinju Tahed captures one of the most intense and symbolic rituals of the Bhil community. Gal Bapsi is a major appeasement ceremony observed the day after Holi. In this ritual, Bhil men who have vowed to thank the deity ‘Gal Devta’ for healing or averting misfortunes fulfil their promise through a dramatic performance. A large wooden platform is constructed with four towering pillars, approximately 20 feet high. The vowed man climbs this structure using a wooden ladder and is tied to a rotating bamboo pole suspended by a rope. Men on the ground pull the rope, spinning him repeatedly in the air. Once the ritual is complete, the man descends and celebrates by dancing and offering drinks to fellow villagers, marking the ritual’s successful completion.

Pinju Tahed’s painting vividly brings this ceremony to life using traditional Bhil dot work in red, yellow, white, and green. The swirling motion, the towering platform, and the gathered community are all rendered in expressive, rhythmic patterns. Tahed, known for bold visual narratives and contemporary tribal aesthetic, transforms this canvas into a frame of storytelling. Use of detailed texture and symbolic colour makes this work not only a cultural document but also a captivating piece of visual art.

Why this painting stands out:

• Authentically hand-painted by the tribal artist Pinju Tahed - Artist Pinju Tahed's art reflects the Bhil community’s rich connection with nature, mythology, and symbolic expression.

• Measuring 35 x 28 inches acrylic on canvas painting is a mid-size artwork perfect for any space desired. Ideal for cultural centres, gallery walls, homes or creative studio spaces.

• A perfect addition to any art lover's, tribal and cultural enthusiasts' collection.

• Painted in intricate dot style details using traditional Bhil art techniques.

Experience the raw beauty and profound depth of tribal creativity.