This figure of an elephant is one of the purest examples of the very much vibrant culture that makes its statement among the Gadaba tribes mainly found in the Indian state of Odisha. This tremendous piece is crafted in paper pulp over a bamboo frame and is the hallmark of the tribe's ingenuity in natural sustainable materials used to create elaborate performative objects. For example, split bamboo forms the legs of this elephant. While very flexible and durable, these legs also keep the structure lightweight for performance purposes.The great and different feature of this elephant figurine is that it has a functional design. On its back, you can find a rectangular open space carved into it. An actor can insert his body into this area to animate the entire figure while performing. This ingenious innovation converts the effigy into a wearable costume for the character performed at Bali Yatra, which is the folk theatre festival celebrated in parts of Odisha. This Bali Yatra narrates stories of ancient maritime voyages and mythical episodes. Animal effigies like this elephant play a symbolic and theatrical course.
The body of the elephant is painted an audacious blue with its symbolism and connotation of calm strength and grandeur. Over this base color, intricate designs in pink, yellow, and black are added, increasing the overall decoration. These vibrant patterns stand for festivity and artistic tradition, mirroring the visual richness of the Gadaba cultural landscape. This figure not only conveys arts and crafts but also becomes a culture symbol in the performance arts of the tribe. The symbolic value of this image rests on cultural roots among the Gadaba in their storytelling, mythology, and laboratories of craft.