Handicrafts

About Handicrafts

The best cultural traditions of a country can be found in its handicrafts....Read More

Puppets

What is Katputhli? Kathputli means Puppets ,where kaath refers to wood and putli implies a doll thus the name of a wooden puppet. It is made entirely from wood is usually two feet in height with a wooden head, big eyes and a large nose. It is attached with a metal wire which acts as […]

5 ^/5

Open

Madhubani Paintings

Madhubani Painting Madhubani painting or Mithila art is a 2500-year-old Indian art form having its origin in the Mithila region of Bihar and Nepal. Available at Delhi:- Ambapali Bihar Emporioum, Dilli Haat, Sutasta, State Emporiums CP History Madhubani paintings are said to have their origins during the period of Ramayana. It is believed that King […]

5 ^/5

Open

Indian Carpets

The Mughal Period The art of manufacturing Indian carpets in India goes back to the Mughal era. This is the time when India inherited weaving expertise from Persia, Afghanistan and China. Shops Available at Delhi:- Kashmir Emporium, Shaw brothers (Delhi), Bharati Delhi Emporium, NCE Oriental Rugs, Shiva Oriental Rugs, Central Cottage Industries Emporium Available at Chennai:- Central Cottage […]

5 ^/5

Open

Bhadohi Woven Basket

Badohi woven Basket Bhadohi is a village in the State of Uttar Pradesh. The sarpat grass that grows near the river is the raw material for making baskets. Badohi woven Basket in this village are made from this grass. Further, these eco-friendly baskets are traditionally created by the women folk in rural India. Available at […]

5 ^/5

Open

Blue Pottery

Blue Pottery in Rajasthan This is of Turko-Persian in origin. Firstly, the name ‘blue pottery’ comes from the eye-catching blue colour that is used. Cobalt is used for the blue dye. It has close similarity to the Islamic pottery. For instance, the blue is an imported technique from Mongolia and China . Further, it was […]

5 ^/5

Open

Bronze

What is Bronze? Bronze handicrafts in India are very popular. Firstly, the rich heritage of Tamil culture is beautifully reflected in the traditional handicrafts of the State. In addition, These ethnic art forms also help in preserving antique artifacts from Chola and Pandya dynasties. Available at Bangalore:- Central Cottage Industries, Cauvery Handicrafts emporioum, Shops in […]

5 ^/5

Open

Camel Bone Art

This highly skilled Awadhi-style art form is all about carving ornaments out of camel bones. The centuries-old Camel Bone Art demands proficiency in using miniature ‘tilli’ tools and painting techniques. Decorative items such as lockets, bracelets, necklaces and key chains are all made from camel bones and are carved by hand. The art requires a […]

5 ^/5

Open

Coir

What is Coir? Coir, or coconut fibre, is produced from coconut husk. This golden fiber comes in handy in making a products of daily use. These include handloom floor mats, doormats, carpets, rope cots, brushes and mattresses. In addition, horticulture, upholstery padding and sacking are also made. White coir (reaped from unripe coconuts) on the […]

5 ^/5

Open

Dhokra Art

What is Dhokra Art? Dhokra art/dokra art is a traditional technique of making metal artefacts. Practised by Dhokra Damar tribes, the traditional metal smiths of West Bengal, this art form has withstood the test of time. It is characterised by thin statues with pointed features. This tribal art form dates back 5,000 years. The state […]

5 ^/5

Open

Metal Work

Metal work is another traditional craft of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and parts of West Bengal. The metal is worked upon with the conventional techniques. In fact, hammering, twisting, and cooling is the metalworking process. The entire process is completed by one person. He is in fact the one who is the artist, designer and blacksmith, […]

5 ^/5

Open

Jaipuri Quilts

What are Quilts? Jaipur, the magnificent pink city of India, prides itself in a unique handmade comforter to keep you warm during winters. Quilts or Jaipuri Razai are best known for their softness, warmth and prints. Moreover, these beautiful comforters are available in three varieties. Cotton, velvet and silk. The one made with velvet is […]

5 ^/5

Open

Jute Craft

Jute and Jute Bags Jute, a strong and eco-friendly natural fibre, is also known as the “Golden Fibre” in India. It is due to its shiny outward form. It is also among the most common raw materials used in exquisite artifacts, handicrafts & in jute bags. Thanks to scores of skilful artisans, India is the […]

5 ^/5

Open

Page 1 of 412 3 4

The best cultural traditions of a country can be found in its handicrafts. One could almost say they provide a peek into the soul of a country, showcasing the artisans and the traditions that they carry forward. India’s multi layered cultural heritage provides a truly spectacular and awe-inspiring range of handicrafts.

Understanding this rich diversity is hard enough, much less knowing what to choose and where to find it. We know how to guide you on a journey to discover the best places to find all that is on offer!!!

Click below to explore the different types of work, techniques unique to different regions of India, and so much more along with listings on best places to find them:

E.g. Kashmiri Embroidery on clothing, carpets,…(available at Kashmir Emporium, Shaw Brothers in Delhi; Cottage Arts Emporium in Chennai)

Handicraft tradition in India

India’s multi layered cultural heritage provides a truly spectacular and awe-inspiring range of handicrafts. Tribal communities across India create an amazing variety of handicrafts & textiles from available sources in their surroundings. Temples and historical monuments have preserved metalwork, granite & marble stone carvings and paintings. Jewellers, potters, carpenters, sculptors, painters, coppersmiths & blacksmiths work on their respective skills & professions even today. Skills are passed down generations. Conquerors and occupiers also introduced & contributed to exquisite new crafts in India. From metal work to fine silver filigree work, there’s a lot to choose from. And each region boasts something unique

Brass and bronze sculptures and items from South India where the soil is particularly suitable
Marble and Wooden Work from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh – the Taj Mahal being a standing example
Blue Pottery from Rajasthan
Bamboo, coir products from the East (Assam among other states known for masks and bamboo products)
Dhokra Art from Bengal & Odisha
Finely woven and intricately designed silk carpets from Kashmir