Santhal tribe is one of the largest tribal communities in India, marking a bright cultural identity along its textile traditions. Territorially, Santhals hail from Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar, from where they still bring their traditional styles of clothing to this day.Among their traditional garments is a beautifully stitched blouse made of printed fabric, featuring delicate floral patterns spread across a soft pale yellow base. The floral motifs reflect the community's deep oneness with nature and are common themes in their art, music, or daily lives. The fabric helps make the blouse easy to wear in everyday life and at festive occasions and gives comfort along with the desired durability.
Santhal women traditionally put on such blouses with handwoven sarees that are signature by default; usually, they have quite bright colors and easy yet elegant designs. This craft brings before us the real artistry involved in the making of these garments and how the Santhal artisans keep their heritage alive in textile-making and traditional stitching techniques. This blouse is not only a cloth but a living embodiment of the rich cultural identity of the Santhal tribe. It captures their artistic sensibilities and serves as symbolism of tradition, passed down through generations. However, even modern ways are shaping the styles of contemporary fashion; such garments continue to be significant yet again, in the glory of the antedated beauty of Santhal textile craftsmanship.