Neetu – The Tribal Artist
Neetu Hansda is a proud torchbearer of the Santhal tribal community from Jharkhand, whose life has been deeply rooted in the traditions, stories, and spirit of indigenous art. Born into a family that honored creativity and culture, Neetu was introduced to the essence of tribal art from a young age - absorbing the values, symbols, and visual language that have been preserved across generations.
Guided by her parents and inspired by the ancestral wisdom of her tribe, Neetu brings to life the age-old traditions of Santhal art with a fresh, modern sensibility. Her work is a soulful blend of memory and meaning - capturing tales of community, nature, rituals, and resilience through every stroke and motif.
Through ADHITAL, Neetu aims to bridge the gap between ancient tradition and contemporary living. Her mission is to not only preserve the ethical and cultural depth of tribal art but also to share it with the world - sparking curiosity, appreciation, and a deeper respect for indigenous heritage.
In every creation, Neetu offers more than art - she offers a window into a vibrant culture, inviting us all to celebrate the beauty of tribal roots in today’s world.
What Tribal Art Forms Does ADHITAL Specialize In?
At ADHITAL, the heart of our work lies in celebrating and preserving a diverse range of traditional tribal art forms that have been passed down through generations. Neetu Hansda, the founder and artist behind the brand, has been immersed in these styles since childhood - learning them not from textbooks, but through lived experience and cultural legacy.
The art forms we specialize in include:
Santhali
Sohrai
Saura
Gond
Gauche Mandala
Warli
Madhubani
Doodle & Sketches
Psychological Art
Among these, Santhal art holds a special place in Neetu’s heart, as it reflects her roots and the spirit of her community. Rich in folklore, natural motifs, and earthy symbolism, Santhal art tells stories of everyday life, rituals, and the deep bond between humans and nature.
Through ADHITAL, these traditional styles are reimagined for the modern world; infused into lifestyle products and fashion, while still preserving their authenticity. Our aim is to keep these art forms alive, not just as decoration, but as cultural expressions that educate, connect, and inspire.
What Guides the Creation of Each Artwork?
Every piece of art at ADHITAL is born from a deep respect for tradition and a passion for storytelling.
When Neetu creates, she carefully balances the authentic emotions and ethical values rooted in her tribal heritage with a modern aesthetic that resonates with today’s lifestyle. Each artwork carries the soul of tradition, yet is refreshed with contemporary flair—making it both timeless and relevant.
From the symbolism in every motif to the choice of colors and strokes, her process is mindful and meaningful. Whether it’s meant for fabric, paper, or canvas, the goal is always the same:
To honour the past, reflect the present, and inspire the future.
Why the Brand is Named ADHITAL?
ADHITAL is more than just a name — it’s a heartfelt tribute and a symbol of legacy.
Rooted in love and heritage, the name is a fusion of my parents’ names, Advin and Shital. They are the ones who introduced me to the world of tribal art, nurturing my creativity and grounding me in the values of our community.
In Hindi, Adhital also means “the layer beneath the earth” — a beautiful metaphor for something deep, foundational, and timeless. Just like the stories in tribal art, it reminds us to stay connected to our roots even as we grow.
ADHITAL stands for tradition, transformation, and togetherness — a brand that celebrates the past while embracing the present.