The remarkable and grand history of Rajasthan is a testimony to all lot of special features that are unique to Rajasthan. Supreme among these specialties are the Rajasthani Handicrafts. Decades have passed since the kings and royal families used to rule this desert land and patronize exceptionally talented craftsmen and artists.
Though the rule of kings is not there anymore but the distinctive and admirable talent still remains and rules the Indian land of Rajasthan. Owing to the value and respect that was given to such skills in the past, we are able to find such skillful people even today. From textiles to pottery, stone sculptures, jewelry, wooden art, carpets etc., everything here is so special and artistic which probably cannot be found anywhere else on the planet.
Rajasthan is renowned as a shopper’s paradise. The handicrafts of Rajasthan are found to be so extraordinary and attractive that they are popular and in demand not only in India but all across the world. Read ahead to know more about the various types of famous Rajasthani handicrafts.
- Textiles – Mostly made up of cotton and silk, you can find lots of patterns such as Mothda, Lahariya, Shskari and Ekdali. Many methods such as several types of embroidery, block printing, coloring, dying etc. are used to style the fabrics. Bandhani also known as tie and die is most popular as well common technique used here to style the fabric. Outfits sold here are mostly traditional and especially women’s favorite.
- Jewellery – Ornaments such as ring, necklace, toe ring, anklets, ear rings, bracelets, bangles, nose rings, pendants etc. are quite popular in Rajasthan. Women in villages of Rajasthan are mostly seen wearing silver jewellery. Meenakari work is also quite famous in this place. Other famous type of work includes Kundankari. Bright and colorful Lac bangles are also a specialty of Rajasthan. Other material used in making of jewellery includes glass, plastic, wood and several other metals.
- Paintings – There are different types of paintings found in different parts of Rajasthan. Historical monuments and museums of Rajasthan also showcase a splendid collection of paintings of olden days. Miniature paintings can also still be found in Rajasthan.
- Pottery and sculptures – The origin of Kumhars, the caste of potters has its origin in Rajasthan. The most popular of all the forms of potteries found in Rajasthan is the blue potter of Jaipur.Rajasthan is blessed with some of the best stone and marble sculptors as well. Intricate sculptures of Gods and Goddesses are truly the masterpieces of their own kind.
- Carpets and weaving – The art of Carpet making was given, in fact taught by Persians to the people in Jaipur. Among other popular woven products are shawls and kheis.
There are also some region specific specialties in Handicrafts of Rajasthan such as
- Jaipur is famous for Jewellery made with Gold, Silver, Kundan, Meenakari, Lac, Glass and precious stones.
- Pushkar and Ajmer are renowned for their leather work.
- Kota Doria Sarees from Kota are sold all over India.
- Products made from Khas such as perfumes, fans, caps, pouches etc. are special to Sawai Madhopur
- Hand printed and tie and die fabrics, turbans and sarees can be best bought from Udaipur.
- Bikaner is known for wooden and camel-hide products.
