Rajasthan's 10 Best Traditional Crafts in India
Rajasthan is a land of monarchs and great tales who have diligently pushed artists to develop traditional crafts that celebrate India’s rich history. Rajasthan is a state in India that is well-known for its rich heritage. Traditional handicrafts from this region are particularly popular, in addition to forts and palaces. Rajasthani traditional crafts include vibrant colors, distinctive shapes, metals, beautiful paintings, and a kind of entertainment. The name ‘Rajasthan’ signifies ‘king’s land.’ Hence, Rajasthan attracts visitors from all over the world who come to learn about India’s rich history. Rajasthan’s legends have significantly impacted the state, offering incredible regal culture and traditions that Indians continue to practice.
Usually, the bride and groom get ready in royal clothes for weddings. However, people in modern times, inspired by flamboyant royal dynasties, seek to surround themselves with distinctive goods and colors. As a result, many ancient Rajasthan crafts flourished in India and worldwide over time.
Here are 10 mind-blowing traditional Rajasthani handicrafts that can transport anyone to ancient India.
1. Blue Pottery
Blue pottery is a well-known traditional craft from Rajasthan’s Jaipur. However, the art was initially Turko-Persian in origin. The name ‘Blue Pottery’ is derived from a bright cobalt blue dye color used by artists to create products. It’s a blue and white variety of pottery Euroasian in style. Chinese ceramics have influenced the scale and shape of the art. There is no need for clay when carving the port for this vessel. Instead, to manufacture a dough for the port article, artisans use quartz stone powder, powdered glass, gum borax, Multani mitti (Fuller’s Earth), and water. Animals, birds, and flower designs are commonly found on these pottery pieces. Flower vases, ashtrays, small bowls, and ports are typical handicrafts made using clay.
2. Jewelry Made of Ivory​
Ivory is a hard cream-colored substance obtained from the trunk of an elephant. It continues to be compared to more expensive materials such as pearl or silver. Ivory is traded through Jaipur, Rajasthan. The ivory bangles are a traditional jewelry item worn by Rajasthani ladies on all significant occasions. Many people like ivory for practical and artistic reasons, as it is more challenging and more dependable than a woodblock. In addition, it is not easily broken or cracked.
Ivory has come a long way over the years. Men used to make weapons out of ivory when metal wasn’t available. Ivory, in particular, has become more expensive, as people regard it as a precious traditional item.
3. Puppet
In India, a puppet is known as a kathputli. The name is derived from two Rajasthani words: Kath, which means wood, and Putli, which signifies no life. Kathputli refers to a puppet that is entirely composed of wood. To make them look magnificent, an artist utilizes cotton and bright colors.Puppets, also known as kathputlis, have their origins in Nagaur, Rajasthan, and the surrounding territories. New Delhi, India’s capital, also includes a Shadipur Depot neighborhood known as ‘Kathputli Colony.’ All of the puppeteers, musicians, and dancers reside here.
Many historians believe that this work is over a thousand years old. Kathputli’s origins may be traced to old folk tales about powerful monarchs and kingdoms. It evolved into a source of entertainment with time. For example, puppet shows are performed at traditional fairs, expressing social themes or subjects.
4. Rajasthani Paintings​
Rajasthani paintings are all about the ancient Indian kingdoms’ rich culture. Rajasthani paintings are influenced mainly by Rajput art. Rajputs are a group of people that have ties to ancient kings. They would embellish their palaces with gorgeous handmade paintings if they had a royal connection. Most notably, the kingdoms’ walls were covered with incredible hand-painted murals. Rajputs were regal. Therefore their way of life was colorful, and it still shines out brilliantly today. Although Rajasthani paintings cover many subjects, they were usually created for a specific reason. For example, Mewar rulers wanted to convey their desire to leave a legacy. Rajasthani paintings uniquely combine art and reality. These paintings narrate Rajasthan’s history as the times change.
5. Dhurrie
Dhurrie is a thick, flat handwoven rug Indians use to sit or sleep on the floor. They are very comfy and are utilized for huge political or social meetings. Most importantly, they require little upkeep. The art of making dhurries is a Rajasthani tradition. Dhurries were previously used in kingdoms to cover floors with a colorful handmade rug with beautiful designs. Rajasthan was the first place where these carpets were made in the 17th century. Afghan weavers have also incorporated the style into the royal ateliers.
Cotton yarns are used to make Dhurries in places like Bikaner and Jaisalmer. ‘Namdahs,’ or felted rugs, are made in Rajasthan’s Tonk district.
6. Lace Bracelets
Rajasthan is known for its lac bangles made from molten lava. These bangles are considered auspicious in many places of India, not only Rajasthan. Rajasthani wedding rites necessitate specific decoration, and festivals celebrate them with unique costumes. Pink bangles, for example, are worn during Holi celebrations, while ‘gulali choodha,’ or crimson bangles, are used on wedding days. On other occasions, other colors are significant. Lac is pasted on the wooden rail and rolled into a cylindrical shape using a flat board to construct this exquisite craft. The width of a bangle is determined by design and the event. The bangles are then embellished with pearls, semi-precious stones, mirrors, and tiny colorful beads once given their shape.
7. Kundan
Kundan is a classic Indian gem that is commonly used in heavy jewelry. Kundan’s origins can be traced back to Rajasthani regal periods. Indian queens wore this piece of jewelry due to its stunning appearance. The Rajasthani city of Jaipur is the epicenter of Kundan jewelry. Kundan is also known as Jaipuri jewelry, and it is known for enameling vibrant colors in intricate designs. Brides in India still wear Kundan on their wedding day, as it is an integral part of traditional bridal jewelry. In addition, many heroines in period films, including Jodhaa Akbar (2008) and Padmaavat (2018), wear Kundan jewelry. The skeletal framework, known as ‘ghaat,’ is the first step in the intricate process of building Kundan in articles.
8. Razai from Rajasthan
Rajasthani Razai is a high-end silk quilt from Rajasthan. This handcrafted item is in high demand in India and around the world. Rajasthani Razai is centered in Jaipur. These quilts are available in various sizes and styles, including micro quilts, printed quilts, light-weighted quilts, and AC quilts. Rajasthani quilts are also distinguished by their printing style, which features traditional royal imprints from the state. Rajasthan quilts, in reality, portray the rich and lively culture of colorful India. They show royal palaces, forts, silhouettes of kings and queens, elephants, camels, and palace gardens. Above all, Rajasthani artists hand-paint the entire quilt with natural colors, making these quilts truly one-of-a-kind.
9. Meenakari
Meenakari is a unique Indian jewelry tradition that dates back thousands of years. However, this type of ornamentation has been around for a long time, and it continues to be popular in the fashion world. In the 16th century, Raja Man Singh of Mewar, Rajasthan, was recognized as the patron of this art. This craft became widespread as a result of his efforts. It is also a cultural and traditional symbol. It also has a stunning appearance, making a woman look like a queen on her wedding day. Rajasthani Meenakari’s work plays a crucial role in cutting stunning designs in today’s jewelry market. Delicate shape, intricacy, cultural motifs, vibrant colors, and gems and stones are all hallmarks of Meenakari. In her Times of India blog, Soumya Joy writes about a woman’s metamorphosis after wearing such jewelry.
“Perfect Rajasthani Jewellery can instantly turn you from a typical woman to a regal lady.”
10. Mojaris
Morjaris, also known as Jutis, are handcrafted shoes with intricate embroidery. Rajasthan has come a long way because of this traditional craft, which has helped the state maintain its attractiveness. The footwear’s themes and patterns differ from one district to the next. Mojaris, on the other hand, congregate in Jaipur and Jodhpur. They are an essential component of traditional attire. Mojaris are created for both men and women, and Indians wear them with formal dress.
Above all, mojaris are popular with both natives and visitors to India. This footwear necessitates competence as well, as it passes through multiple stages.
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