Understanding Chausat Kala – Various Categories Of Ancient Indian Crafts
The 64 Kalas, which are called Chausat Kala or Chathusashti Kala, were important elements of the ancient education system of India.
On reading the term Kala, many people mistakenly think that the scope of Chausat Kala is confined only to fine arts. But that is not the case. Along with fine arts, the 64 Kalas are inclusive of many other crafts. Craft generally requires specific skills and knowledge of skilled work – they cannot be done without specialized training.
Chausat Kala – a wide variety of crafts beyond fine art
These 64 Kalas which are combinations of fine arts and crafts can be divided into many categories. This particular write-up will attempt to briefly elaborate on this aspect.
- Chausat Kalas include skills such as dancing, singing, drama, playing musical instruments, and painting. These come under the category of “fine arts.”
- In the same way, the art of properly combing the hair and cooking varied kinds of delicacies are among the 64 Kalas, too. These can be categorized as “domestic arts”, for people predominantly use these capabilities in their homes. There are a few individuals possessing these competencies who go ahead and make their careers in these arts.
- The Kalas also cover the aspect of taking up herbal medicine as a profession and making use of different types of herbs to prepare remedies. This falls under the category “science, technology, engineering, and medicine.” Here, it needs to be highlighted that this medical profession is of paramount relevance, for it is concerned with the health and well-being of people.
- The 64 arts also comprise mechanics, hydro duct engineering, metallurgy, and mineralogy, all of which greatly contribute to society and the economy in several ways. All these are also encompassed under “Science, technology, engineering, and medicine.”
- Making and testing gold and silver jewelry is an activity that has always been in demand. This is among the Chausat Kala, and “Etiquette, fashion, and jewelry” is the exact category in which it comes. The Kala of applying appropriate paint to the body and face is comparable to the job of a modern-day beautician. It can be treated as belonging to this very category.
- Recitation of the content of different books, interpretation of complex verses, and composing verses are all scholarly capabilities that are highly respected. The group “Language/communication” is the one that covers these skill sets.
- Likewise, it is seen that professional magicians use sleight of hand and juggling tricks, to entertain their audience. These can be grouped under the “recreation and entertainment” class.
- The purview of Kalas includes crafts like carpentry, weaving, blacksmithing, construction, and mechanics. These can broadly be categorized as construction-related crafts.
Key take away Chausat Kala is not fine arts
Many people hold on to the misconception that Chausat Kala deal only with the numerous art forms that do not address any necessary issues. But, from the details presented above, it’s clear that several crafts are essential to resolve many day-to-day issues of life. For example, people need the assistance of medical professionals at some time or the other. The presence of carpenters and mechanics is indispensable; their services are needed by both homes and business entities.
Other than all the Kalas mentioned in this article, there are many more that can’t be covered due to a paucity of space. A few of the arts are such that they can’t be put into any specific categories. Each of these arts/crafts is a category by itself. Do read our other articles on Chausat Kala to entertain and educate yourself on the ancient Indian Kalas.
Suggested Reading:
Rich Heritage Of Employable Skills Through Kalas Lost in Macaulay Education System
Demerits Of Macaulay Education System
India at the Time of Macaulay
Thomas Babington Macaulay – A Brief Biography