The life of Punita Kumari from Jamshedpur is living proof that a fresh start is possible at any stage of experience. The same hands that once taught children the basics of the keyboard and the computer today wield colours and a brush to give Jharkhand's soil-rooted Sohrai art a brand new identity. Her journey has been anything but a straight road, full of unexpected turns, and each turn taught her something new.
A Career That Began With Technology
Punita laid the foundation of her professional life in computer education. In her early days she taught children basic computer courses and stayed active in the field of technical knowledge. It was here that her instinct for teaching first took root, an instinct that would later become central to her identity. After marriage she spent some time in Punjab, where she opened a new chapter of life alongside her family responsibilities.
Delhi, the Share Market and the Deoghar Years
What followed was a fascinating stretch. From 2001 to 2009 Punita lived in Delhi, and during these years she also tried her hand extensively in the world of the share market. Her ability to step into unfamiliar fields and adapt herself to any situation kept pushing her forward. After Delhi, her path led to Deoghar, where she took up tuition classes while also working as a teacher in a school.
Village Walls That Changed Her Direction
The biggest turning point of her life came after the year 2009. It was during this period that her interest began drifting toward Jharkhand's traditional Sohrai art. As she travelled through different villages of the state, the strikingly beautiful paintings etched on the mud walls made her stop in her tracks. This was not mere decoration; it was a living expression of Jharkhand's culture, nature and traditions. That sight sank deep into her heart, and she resolved to understand this art form closely.
From a Hobby to a Passion
To master the finer details of Sohrai painting, Punita took part in several training programmes. Slowly, what began as an interest grew into a passion. Today she not only creates Sohrai paintings herself but also connects children and young people to the art through various workshops. She believes this priceless heritage of Jharkhand must reach the new generation so that its identity can grow even stronger.
Color and Brush: Art Beyond the Canvas
Punita also runs her own creative platform called Color and Brush. Through this platform she presents Sohrai art in a fresh and modern form. Her work is no longer confined to the canvas. She brings the beautiful touch of Sohrai painting to jute bags, file folders, handmade gifting products and many useful everyday items. Every product she crafts clearly carries the soul of Jharkhand's culture, nature and folk art.
Today, through her art, Punita is not only carving out her own identity but also carrying Jharkhand's rich cultural heritage to new heights. Her journey shows that passion, hard work and a bond with one's roots can give any person an entirely new identity.
