Crafting and Art have long been essential parts of the human experience, displaying our innate ingenuity and inventiveness. These activities give people the means to transform unfinished goods into things that have aesthetic value, usefulness, and cultural significance. An art enthusiast from Sullia Taluk creates wonders using coconut shells.
Rohit who hails from a small village near Panja in Sullia Taluk, is a remarkable individual who has dedicated himself to the creation of art from the most unexpected of materials. Although he is a blacksmith by profession, his true calling lies in the realm of artistry. For the past 15 years, he has channeled his creative instincts and artistic talents into crafting unique and mesmerizing works of art from coconut husks.
Unlike many artists who receive formal education and training in their craft, Rohit has chosen a different route. He has shown the world that education is not always a necessary complement to talent. Instead of relying on silver and gold to flourish, he has harnessed his innate creativity and transformed humble coconut husks into awe-inspiring masterpieces.
It discovered that Rohit once taught art at Pilikula Nisargadham, his story takes a fascinating turn. For several years, he shared his knowledge and passion for art with others, leaving a lasting impact on the students he taught. However, after this stint, he made a conscious decision to return to his village and pursue self-employment through his artistic endeavors.
He has crafted over 120 different figures from coconut shells, each a testament to his ingenuity and skill. In his hands, the gerata, a traditional implement, blossoms as a flower, takes on the form of a fish, and is even revered as a deity. This ability to infuse life and beauty into something as unassuming as a coconut husk is a testament to his artistic prowess.
The artistry extends to a wide range of subjects and objects. His creations span from Ganapati, cleverly disguised as a character from Yakshagana, to chenne mane, a representation of a traditional folk sport of Tulunad. He doesn’t stop at religious or cultural themes. He also transforms coconut husks into water jugs, decorative items for homes, fish, crocodiles, insects, and even essences used for crafting swords.
Among his many creations, one piece that particularly captures the imagination is the Magic Jug. Crafted 14 years ago, this ingeniously constructed jug is designed in a way that defies conventional logic. Water is poured into the back of the jug, and as if by magic, it fills the container. However, when the water is dispensed from the front, it does not flow back from the back. This creation is a testament to Rohit’s ability to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with a coconut husk and his capacity to create wonder in the minds of those who behold it.
Rohit’s achievements in the arts are unquestionably great, but his love of animals adds another dimension to who he is. He is especially fond of dogs, cats, and chickens. For him, these animals are more than just pets; they are friends that brighten and warm his life. His love for these animals is a reflection of his close relationship with nature, which serves as a major source of inspiration for his work.