As a child, Batto Bai Parihar from Gwalior loved playing with dolls. Little did she know, she would one day create a legacy of dolls that would outlive her, becoming a celebrated cultural symbol of Madhya Pradesh and a cherished heirloom for generations.
A pioneering craftswoman from pre-independence India, Batto Bai is the visionary behind the iconic “Batto Bai dolls,” also known as Gudda-Gudiya (boy and girl dolls). These charming dolls, which are handcrafted from a unique combination of organic materials like rags, paper, clay, and wires, are more than just toys; they are tangible pieces of history that tell the stories of rural life in Central India.
Batto Bai, who was born before India’s independence, was taught the craft of doll-making by her mother-in-law to help make ends meet. Her creations, particularly the Raja-Rani (King and Queen) pairs, quickly became popular. Her skill was so profound that in 1967, she was honored with a National Award, bringing her dolls and the art form to national and international prominence.
The enduring nature of the dolls is not just in their physical form but in their cultural significance. They are not merely objects of decoration but are used in rituals and festivals, such as Akha Teej, where unmarried girls use them to pray for their own happy unions. Batto Bai’s family believes that the dolls carry the prayers and stories of their creators and owners, making them timeless.
Today, Batto Bai’s legacy is carried on by her fourth generation of family members. Her grandson, Bharat Singh Parihar, and other family members continue the tradition, ensuring that the unique art form and its cultural heritage are preserved. These handmade dolls are now exported to countries around the world, from Japan and France to Australia and the USA, serving as ambassadors of India’s rich artistic heritage.
Through her art, Batto Bai not only created beautiful dolls but also a timeless tradition that continues to inspire and connect people across continents.
