Justin Imam, a luminary in the realm of tribal art and culture preservation, breathed his last on January 13, 2024, in Hazaribag, Jharkhand. A passionate advocate for Jharkhand’s traditional Sohrai and Khovar art forms, Justin’s legacy is etched in his tireless efforts to elevate rural artists onto national and global platforms.

Born into the esteemed family of environmentalist and Padma Shri awardee Bulu Imam, Justin’s demise at the age of 49, due to a sudden heart attack, has left a profound void in the artistic community and beyond. His final rites were solemnized at the Hazaribag Cemetery, where loved ones bid farewell to a visionary soul.

Justin’s indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment, coupled with the support of his beloved wife, Alka Imam, have catalyzed a cultural renaissance in the heartlands of Hazaribag. Since their union in 1998, Justin and Alka embarked on a noble mission to preserve and propagate the ‘Sohrai’ and ‘Khovar’ art forms, weaving a tapestry of tradition across more than ten villages.

Their journey, fraught with challenges yet fueled by passion, saw them traverse the hinterlands, painting mud houses and nurturing local talent. Their dedication bore fruit as Hazaribag’s painted villages garnered acclaim, earning a coveted Geographical Indicator (GI) tag and recognition on national and international platforms.

Justin’s visionary leadership and Alka’s unwavering support drew inspiration from kindred spirits like Deidi von Schaewen, a foreign traveller and philanthropist, whose patronage bolstered their endeavours. Together, they transformed mundane mud walls into canvases of cultural expression, resonating with the heartbeat of Jharkhand.

The legacy of Justin and Alka Imam reverberates across Jharkhand, adorning landmarks like the Hazaribagh railway station, Ranchi airport, Birsa Munda Jaivik Udyan, and the Governor’s house with vibrant Sohrai and Khovar motifs. Their collaborative efforts, immortalized in strokes of creativity, serve as a testament to their enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to preserving tribal heritage.

Justin Imam’s untimely demise leaves an irreplaceable void in the artistic landscape, but his legacy of cultural stewardship and advocacy for tribal arts will continue to inspire generations. As we bid adieu to a visionary soul, may his spirit continue to illuminate the path of cultural preservation and artistic expression.