Handicrafts are formed from the words hand + craft. Hand means made by hand or with simple tools in the making of any item, and craft means a unique expression that represents a country’s culture, tradition, and heritage. That is to say, handicraft is a unique expression through the use of art on any item. Handicraft, also known as artisanry, refers to a type of work in which useful and decorative devices are made entirely by hand or with simple tools. The term “handicraft” is most commonly used to refer to “art and craft.” Art and craft work is not only about having fun but also about creating useful and creative work for people by using natural materials and traditional techniques.
Rajasthani Handicrafts have a nearly 5,000-year history. The first references to handicrafts were discovered in the Moen Jo Daro, Sindh Indus valley civilization around 3000 B.C. – 1700 B.C. The Indus Valley civilization had a rich craft tradition as well as a high level of technical excellence in the fields of pottery, metal and terracotta, jewelry, weaving, and so on. The artisans not only created all of the local necessities but also surplus items.
Development of Indian Handicrafts in B.C. / A.C
Vedic Era
The Indus Valley civilization was permitted by the Vedic age, which began in 1500 B.C. with the writing of the Vedas. There are numerous references in the Vedas to artisans engaged in pottery making, weaving, wood carving, and so on. Particular reference is made in the Rig Veda to a variety of pottery made from clay, wood, and metal.
State Empires
The rise of the Mauryan Empire in the third century B.C. ushered in the concept of state. It is said that during Ashoka’s reign, 84,000 stupas were built in India, including the world-famous Sanchi Stupa, which features beautiful stone carving and relief work. The iron pillars of Vaishali (Bihar) and Delhi, built during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, are engineering marvels.
Post Maurya Era
In the period between the first century B.C. and the first century A.D., Greek intrusions can be seen in Buddhist sculptures from Taxila, Begram, Bamiyan, Swat Valley, and other locations. The main handicrafts that inherited foreign influences and assimilated them under the Indian milieu were jewelry, sculpture, textile making, leather products, metalworking, and so on.
Gupta Era
The Gupta period (AD 320-647) is known as the classical period in Indian history. The rock-cut temples of Ellora and the Ajanta murals are notable points in the craft field. These murals depict a realistic view of life at the time. Under royal patronage, the craftsmen of this era excelled in jewelry making, woodcarving, sculpture, stone carving, and weaving.
Medieval India
In the context of handicraft items, the Medieval period of Indian history saw a marked shift from north India to the Deccan and southern parts of the country. During the Delhi Kingdom period, handicraftsmen flourished in pottery, weaving, wood carving, metalworking, jewelry, and so on. The form of the Khajuraho Temples, built by the Chandelas, is a fine example of central Indian stone carving. The medieval Jagannath temple in Puri, Orissa, has rich and ornate wood and stone carving.
The Indian Proposition
The Indian handicraft industry contributes significantly to the rural economy’s development and earns significant foreign exchange. Moradabad, Jaipur, Saharanpur, Jodhpur, and Narsapur are major handicraft centers in India. Approximately 1 million people were employed (directly and indirectly) in the handicraft industry. Handicrafts Exporters in India have an advantage over competitors such as China, the Philippines, and others who generally produce machine-made products, whereas Indian handmade products are more popular all over the world due to their unique designs and skilled craftsmanship.
Global Scenario
Many other countries, like India, are keen on promoting their handicraft industry. According to a rough estimate, the Australian government spends approximately $6.3 million per year, and the United States (one of the largest players in the handicraft industry) employs approximately 127000 people and accounts for approximately US$13.8 billion. Canada accounts for nearly $100 million in exports and employs approximately 22,597 people in the handicraft sector.
Government Initiative
To empower the rural sector, the Indian government has been very supportive of the handicraft industry. Craftspeople have numerous opportunities to showcase their wares at well-publicized trade shows and trade fairs.
Current Developments
Following a period of struggle, Indian handicraft items are reclaiming their rightful place in the global market. Costume jewelry, hand-printed textiles and scarves, embroidered and crocheted garments, bags and purses, zari supplies, footwear, shawls, belts, chappals, and stoles, and so on have more appeal in Western countries.
Handicraft Items of Jaipur
Jaipur, Rajasthan’s capital city, is a handicraft shopping paradise. This title is given to the city on almost all touring websites, travel guides, blogs, shopping portals, and online catalogs, and one can never leave empty-handed. Jaipur celebrated glazed blue pottery, which originated in Persia. This stylish blue-colored pottery type combines traditional and modern elements. It includes ornamental items, jugs, mugs, pots, plates, and much more. The world admires marble carvings of delicate vases, animals, human forms, and Hindu gods.
Metal and brass workers in Jaipur are especially skilled at bringing life to a rather lifeless metal. Metalworks offered by the royal city include carved and lacquered brasses, ornamental items, and sculptures. Drawer boxes, windows, carved doors, and picture frames, like woodcrafts, are attractive. Furthermore, these woodworks have an antique appearance.
Handicraft Items of India:
There are a variety of Handicraft Items that are manufactured in India. You will get all the details over the internet like Jewelry, Rugs & Carpets, Blue Pottery, Furniture, Brass Furniture, Metal Items, Marble Articles, Leather Articles, and a lot more.
Conclusion
Rajasthan, with its rich historical, cultural, and environmental heritage, as well as numerous fairs, festivals, and handicrafts, has become a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world. According to tourist arrival statistics, one out of every three tourists in India visits Rajasthan. Beautiful Rajasthan handicrafts retain their exclusivity while depicting the state’s rich culture and tradition. Rajasthani handicraft is an addition to the state’s attractions. If you visit Rajasthan, look for the state’s most beautiful art, and handicraft items.