The term ‘Gond’ has its origin from Telugu word 'Kond' which means a mountain. It is believed that after the downfall of their dynasties, ‘Gonds’ took shelters in the mountains. Mr. Tiju Ram Vishwakarma belongs to the same Gond community, who are ironsmiths too. He lives in the Kedaichepda village, which is about 20 kms from Kondagaon. Famous for ironsmith community, the village has eight families numbering to about a hundred people dedicated to wrought iron craft.
Tiju Ram learnt the craft from his father and gained experience with time. His vision of the craft changed drastically when he came to Mumbai. With his work experience with a well-known designer, decorating an industrialist’s bungalow in Juhu, he started getting recognized by people. He started experimenting with form and material, catering to the various aesthetic needs of people. He has traveled on an invitation to the countries like Italy, Russia and Austria to showcase his work. His recent project includes interior designing of the Northern Trust Corporation’s India office in Bangalore. He has been honored with the state award by Chattisgarh Government in 2011.
