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 Namaste and welcome to the world of Indian handicrafts. The history of Indian handicrafts dates back to over 5000 years- to the Indus valley (3000 BC - !700 BC) - where the first traces of Indian handicrafts are found. Over the years people from different parts of the world came and settled in the resource rich regions of India. They brought along with them their own traditions and practices. Many kings and emperors over the ages patronized these traditions and supported thousands of artisans and craftsmen to develop their art and skills and used it as a symbol of their rule and dynasty. Even today many of the arts are classified on the basis of the dynasty to which they belonged. Thus Indian art and craft of every age; every dynasty; every empire reflect the culture; traditions and events of that particular era; thereby making Indian heritage diverse and culturally rich.
Unfortunately, in the 18th and 19th century the kings and their kingdoms were lost to the British and Portuguese rule. This, coupled with the advent of industrialization and mass production, the once thriving handicrafts industry declined rapidly and was on the verge of dying out completely. After India gained independence the efforts of individuals like Kamladevi Chattopadhyay helped in the revival of Indian handicrafts. The Indian government also stepped in and used its resources to create an infrastructure conducive to the handicrafts industry. These efforts bore fruit and took Indian handicrafts to the world. Thanks to art loving people like you, who understand the true value of these works and are patronizing them wholeheartedly, today Indian handicrafts are once again witnessing the days of past glory.
With a span of 1997 miles from north to south and 1860 miles from east to west and with a huge diversity of culture and religion, India is home to a wide variety of handicrafts. |
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