February 5, 2026• BLOG

The Timeless Journey of Kashmir Paper Machie

Overview

The Timeless Journey of Kashmir Paper Machie: A Craft Through Centuries

Kashmir Paper Machie, locally known as Kar-i-Qalamdan, is a living chronicle of Kashmir’s cultural exchanges, royal patronage, and artisan resilience. Its journey spans centuries, shaped by faith, royalty, empires, and evolving markets.

14th Century: The Persian Arrival

Kashmir paper machie is originated in the 14th century when Persian saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani introduced the art. He brought 700 craftsmen from Persia and Central Asia to Kashmir. These craftsmen were skilled in molding paper pulp into decorative objects.

The oldest paper machie can be found in the Shah Hamdan Mosque (Srinagar). A place to explore and understand the beginning of Kashmir Paper Machie work.

15th Century: Royal Nurturing Under Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin

It was further developed in the 15th century by Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin, who brought artisans from Samarkand (now Uzbekistan). A new technique, called kar-i-qulamdan (pen case work), emerged, involving the shaping of paper pulp into delicate objects and painting intricate Persian-inspired designs.

Mughal Period Influence (16th-18th Century)

The Mughal era provided significant royal patronage, turning the craft into a luxury art form. The Mughal influence brought refined Persian aesthetics and motifs (floral designs, birds, intricate patterns) to the existing craft, which was originally used primarily for Qalamdani (pen cases).

British Empire Era

During British rule, Kashmir paper machie adapted to European tastes. The British highly valued these intricate items, leading to a shift in production toward decorative pieces, such as tea trays, writing sets, and decorative furniture, which were exported to Europe.

Post-Independence (1947)

After India’s independence in 1947, Kashmiri paper machie shifted from an elite to a commercial handicraft sector. While this made the craft more accessible, it also brought challenges, mass production, declining authenticity, reduced incomes for artisans, and competition from machine-made alternatives.

Current Era: GI Protection and Cultural Revival

A small group of artisans is still keeping this craft alive in Kashmir. They make boxes, bowls, vases, and other decorative and functional items.

To safeguard this century-old craft, the government recognised Kashmir Paper Machie with a Geographic Indication (GI) tag. This recognition promotes craft on the national and international stages and helps artisans to understand the GI business. It also provides fair trade opportunities and protects the craft from cheap imitation.

January 19, 2026• BLOG

Every Thread Woven with Heritage Skill and Pride

Assam’s Handloom

Every Thread Woven with Heritage, Skill and Pride

Overview

Assam Handlooms represent a rich and living tradition rooted in the cultural identity of Assam. Handloom weaving in the state is largely a household activity, traditionally practiced by women, where skills are passed down through generations. More than a means of livelihood, handloom is closely tied to everyday life, rituals, and festivals, reflecting the region’s deep respect for craftsmanship and self-reliance.

The handloom sector of Assam is especially renowned for its unique natural silks, Muga, Eri, and Pat. Muga silk, with its distinctive golden hue, is exclusive to Assam and is prized for its strength and longevity. Eri silk is valued for its soft texture and thermal comfort, while Pat silk is known for its smooth finish and elegance. Together, these fabrics form the backbone of Assamese handloom identity, used in traditional attire such as mekhela chador, gamosa, stoles, and shawls.

History of Handlooms in Assam

The history of Assam’s handloom is deeply woven into the cultural life of Assam, dating back to ancient times. References to Assamese textiles appear in early Sanskrit texts and in accounts of travelers like Hiuen Tsang, who praised the region’s fine silk fabrics. Weaving in Assam traditionally took place within households, where women played a central role, passing skills from one generation to the next.

During the Ahom dynasty, royal patronage helped the handloom tradition flourish, with fine fabrics used in court attire and ceremonial gifts. Despite challenges during colonial rule and industrialization, Assam’s handloom survived through community resilience. Today, it stands as a living heritage, blending tradition with contemporary design, representing the skill, pride, and cultural continuity of the Assamese people.

A Legacy Passed Through Generations

In Assam, weaving is traditionally practiced at home, making it an intimate and personal art. Almost every household owns a loom, and girls often begin learning to weave at a young age. Mothers and grandmothers pass on patterns, techniques, and stories, turning the act of weaving into a shared family tradition. Unlike industrial textile production, Assam’s handloom is slow, thoughtful, and deeply human. Each fabric carries the weaver’s time, skill, and emotion.

This tradition has been preserved for centuries, even though changing political and economic landscapes. While many parts of India shifted toward mill-made textiles, Assam retained its handwoven identity. The pride associated with wearing a handloom is so strong that traditional Assamese garments are still preferred for festivals, weddings, and important occasions.

The Role of Women in Weaving

Women are the backbone of Assam’s handloom sector. Weaving here is not just an occupation; it is a symbol of dignity and self-reliance. For many women, the loom provides financial independence and social recognition. A woman who weaves well is respected for her skill, patience, and creativity.

In rural areas, weaving often supports entire families. While men may work in agriculture or other trades, women contribute through textile production, sometimes selling their work in local markets or through cooperatives. This makes Assam’s handloom a powerful tool for rural empowerment.

Nature as a Design Partner

One of the most beautiful aspects of Assam’s handloom is its close relationship with nature. Weavers often draw design inspiration from their surroundings, rivers, fields, forests, flowers, and wildlife. Traditional motifs like the “jaapi” (bamboo hat), “kingkhap” (dragon), and floral patterns reflect both everyday life and ancient beliefs.

Natural dyes and fibres have historically been used, giving Assamese textiles their earthy and organic feel. Even today, many artisans prefer sustainable methods, keeping the craft eco-friendly. This connection to nature not only shapes the look of the fabric but also its philosophy, respect for the environment and balance in life.

GI Treasures of Assam's Handloom Heritage

1. Gamosa of Assam

The Gamosa is the most iconic textile of Assam, symbolizing respect, pride, and cultural identity. Traditionally handwoven in white cotton with distinctive red motifs, it is offered during ceremonies, worn in festivals, and presented to guests as a mark of honour. More than just a cloth, the Gamosa reflects Assamese values of hospitality and dignity. Every household treats it with deep reverence, and its designs often carry traditional symbols inspired by nature and heritage. The GI tag ensures that authentic Assamese Gamosa remains protected from imitation and continues to represent Assam’s living textile tradition.

2. Eri Silk of Assam

Eri silk, also known as Ahimsa silk, is one of Assam’s most sustainable and ethical handloom fabrics. The silkworm completes its life cycle before the silk is processed, making it cruelty-free. Eri silk is soft, warm, breathable, and perfect for shawls, stoles, and garments worn throughout the year. It plays an important role in supporting rural livelihoods, especially women weavers. The GI tag protects Assam’s Eri silk as a unique natural fibre known for comfort, durability, and eco-friendly production.

3. Bodo Aronai

Bodo Aronai is a traditional handwoven scarf made by the Bodo community of Assam. It is typically woven in white, red, and black colours, featuring bold geometric motifs that reflect Bodo identity, strength, and harmony with nature. Aronai is offered during ceremonies, festivals, and important social occasions, making it a symbol of respect and pride. Every design carries cultural meaning passed down through generations. With its GI tag, Bodo Aronai is now officially recognized as a protected heritage textile of Assam.

4. Muga Silk of Assam

Muga silk is Assam’s golden treasure and the only silk in the world with a natural golden shine. Produced from silkworm’s native to the Brahmaputra Valley, it is known for its strength, durability, and luxurious glow that deepens with time. Muga silk is traditionally worn in royal and ceremonial garments like mekhela chadors and sarees. The GI tag ensures that only silk produced in Assam can be sold as Muga, protecting its global reputation as one of the finest natural silks.

5. Assam Mising Handloom Products

Mising handloom products are woven by the Mising tribal community of Assam using traditional back-strap looms. These textiles include garments, shawls, and decorative fabrics known for their bold colours, stripes, and geometric patterns. The designs reflect the Mising people’s close relationship with nature and their vibrant cultural life. Handloom weaving is central to their identity and economic well-being. The GI tag preserves the originality of Mising textiles and helps artisans gain recognition and fair value for their work.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite its beauty and cultural value, Assam’s handloom faces challenges. Machine-made fabrics are cheaper and faster to produce, making it harder for handwoven textiles to compete in mass markets. Many young people also move away from traditional crafts in search of modern jobs.

However, there is renewed interest in sustainable fashion, handmade products, and ethical sourcing. Designers, NGOs, and government initiatives are working to connect Assamese weavers with national and international markets. By blending traditional designs with contemporary styles, Assam’s handloom is finding new relevance among younger buyers.

Digital platforms, exhibitions, and GI (Geographical Indication) tags are also helping protect and promote authentic Assamese textiles. These efforts ensure that weavers get fair recognition and better prices for their work.

Conclusion

Assam’s handloom is more than cloth, it is history, identity, and artistry woven together. Each fabric represents countless hours of careful work and generations of inherited knowledge. When you choose an Assamese handloom product, you support not just a weaver, but an entire cultural ecosystem that values patience, sustainability, and tradition.

In a world driven by speed and mass production, Assam’s handloom stands as a gentle reminder of the beauty of slow, handmade creation. It invites us to appreciate not just what we wear, but who made it and how. And in every golden thread of Muga silk or every red motif on a Gamosa, the soul of Assam continues to shine.

December 22, 2025• BLOG

Incredible Handicrafts of Assam

Overview

Assam’s handicraft universe is diverse. Hand-loomed textiles, Wood crafts, Ceramics and terracotta crafts, Metal crafts, Traditional musical instruments, and Household utilities all coexist and frequently overlap across communities and regions. All these crafts share a long history, deep cultural value, and a strong need for recognition. Each craft has been passed down through generations, and for thousands of years, these traditions have helped people sustain their livelihoods, earn a living, and build cultural identities. Born from nature and shaped by it, sustainability remains a core principle of these crafts.

In recent decades, to safeguard heritage crafts, mechanisms like Geographical Indication (GI) tags have become increasingly important.

History of Handicrafts in Assam

The history of handicrafts in Assam is closely linked to the region’s social, religious, and agrarian traditions, evolving over distinct historical periods. As early as the 7th century, Assamese communities began developing refined craft traditions using locally available materials such as bamboo, cane, clay, and metal.

The Sarthebari metal craft, dating back to the 7th century, is one of Assam’s oldest metal traditions. From the same period, the Assam Japi also emerged as a significant craft form. The japi originated as a farmer’s protective hat and gradually evolved into a symbol of respect, honor, and Assamese identity, prominently used in ceremonies and cultural events. In contrast, the Majuli mask-making tradition developed later, around the 16th century.

Together, these crafts reflect the historical layers and enduring cultural heritage of Assam.

What Makes Assam’s Craft Tradition Unique

Several factors make Assam’s handicraft tradition unique:

Diversity in materials and techniques: Assamese crafts cover a broad range of materials, including silk weaving, bamboo-cane weaving, bell-metal casting, clay-based terracotta pottery, mask-making, and woodworking.

Deep connection with nature and environment: Crafts draw on locally available materials, bamboo and cane from forests, clay from riverbanks, metals from traditional smelting, natural fibres for weaving, making many crafts eco-friendly and sustainable.

Cultural-social embedding: Crafts are intertwined with social rituals, daily life, festivals, and cultural identity. Items like bell-metal utensils, woven mats or baskets, pottery, traditional hats and masks are not decorative add-ons but functional and symbolic parts of Assamese life.

Continuity of tradition and community knowledge: Many crafts have been passed down generations, keeping alive age-old skills, motifs, and aesthetics, thus preserving cultural memory.

Adaptive resilience: Over centuries, artisans have adapted their crafts to changing demands from utilitarian household objects to decorative artefacts, souvenirs, and items suited for modern markets and tastes.

Iconic Handicrafts of Assam

Assam Pani Mateka Craft (Water Hyacinth Craft)

The invasive water hyacinth plant, called Pani Mateka in Assam. Pani Mateka Craft is introduced to make environmentally beneficial items, including paper, bags, wallets, and mats. By eliminating the damaging weed from wetlands, this creative trade helps preserve water and revitalize the environment, while providing rural artisans, especially women, with sustainable means of living.

A Geographical Indication (GI) status has been awarded to the craft in recognition of its cultural value and sustainability.

Majuli Mask of Assam

The river-island of Majuli in Assam is known for its classical mask-making tradition. Masks are handcrafted using bamboo, cane, clay, and natural colours; these are often used in traditional dance-drama (like Satriya), religious theatre, and as decorative art. The Majuli Mask of Assam has been officially registered under GI recognition.

These masks are more than objects, they are storytellers. They express mythological narratives, spiritual themes, folktales, and community beliefs. Owning or gifting a mask from Majuli is like owning a piece of living Assamese culture, rooted in centuries-old art and performance traditions.

Assam Jaapi (Traditional Bamboo Hat)

Perhaps one of the most iconic symbols of Assam, the Assam Jaapi is a conical hat woven from bamboo and palm/leaves. Historically worn by farmers and villagers as protection against sun and rain, today it is also used ceremonially, given as a mark of respect or hospitality, and as a decorative item. The Jaapi has deep cultural resonance with Assamese identity.

Jaapis often have elaborate patterns and colourful themes that express aesthetic inclinations. They convey a tale of rural life, tradition, respect, and craftsmanship as cultural memento.

Sarthebari Metal Craft (Bell-Metal / Brass Work)

The town of Sarthebari in Assam is famous for its bell-metal and brass craft tradition. Bell metal is an alloy of copper and tin. Artisans manually cast, heat-treat, hammer and shape metal into utensils, decorative items, religious articles, trays (like the iconic Xorai), bowls, and more. This heritage craft, Sarthebari Metal Craft, is among the oldest continuing art-forms in Assam, with roots possibly as far back as the 7th century AD.

Bell-metal items hold profound significance in Assamese households and rituals. They are used in religious ceremonies, offerings, festive occasions and everyday life. The craftsmanship is manual, requiring skill passed through generations, a living tradition in a fast-changing world.

Terracotta Craft (Asharikandi & Other Villages)

The village of Asharikandi in Dhubri district has long been known as the terracotta village of Assam. This craft is an official handicraft recognized under GI.

Hatima Putul (mother-child) doll is one of the popular terracotta dolls, which has become emblematic of Assam’s folk-art. The artisans of the traditional pottery community make a variety of objects, dolls, toys, lamps, figurines, ritual items, household items and decorative items from local clay.

Assam Bihu Dhol

The Assam Bihu Dhol is a traditional, barrel-shaped, double-headed drum and a vital musical instrument that serves as a core cultural symbol of Assam’s folk tradition. It is the soul of the region’s vibrant Bihu festival and dance, providing the essential rhythms for the celebrations.

The Dhol is carved and hollowed out of a single piece of quality wood, with animal hide or parchment on both ends. The left side is typically larger to produce deeper tones. The instrument’s origins trace back to the late medieval era of the Ahom and Koch kingdoms.

Sustainability of These Crafts

Sustainability matters – we all know that we are surrounded by plastics and concrete. Even with small disposable items like bags, cups, or straws, we depend mainly on cheap plastic. As the world looks for sustainable alternatives, the Importance and demand for natural-made products are on the rise.

Assam’s handicrafts are perfect to fulfil the modern demand of sustainable goods, as sustainability is an important feature of Assamese handicrafts. They utilize natural materials such as bamboo, cane, and clay, which are sourced locally and biodegradable. The crafts are often made by hand, leading to less energy use and pollution. These crafts also provide jobs for many artisans in rural areas, supporting local economies. Additionally, Crafts like Pani Meteka (water-hyacinth) convert invasive aquatic plants into useful items, which not only generate sustainable products but also safeguard local water bodies.

Protection & Preservation: GI Recognition and What It Means

As traditional crafts face the forces of modernization, mass production, and changing lifestyles, preserving them, both culturally and economically, becomes challenging. That is where legal and institutional mechanisms play a crucial role.

One such mechanism is the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag. A GI tag signifies that a product originates from a specific region and possesses qualities, reputation or characteristics essentially attributable to that origin. For handicrafts, a GI tag protects the authenticity and heritage, prevents misuse of the name by outsiders, and ensures rightful benefit to artisan communities.

Assam has a long list of GI crafts and products, and among them are many of the crafts discussed above. As of 2025, there are over 30 registered GI-tag products from Assam, covering handicrafts, handlooms, agricultural products, and more.

GI recognition offers multiple benefits:

Authenticity guarantee: It certifies that the craft genuinely originates from Assam, using traditional methods.

Legal protection: It helps prevent unauthorized or mass-produced imitations that can undercut genuine artisans.

Market value and visibility: GI products often command premium in domestic and international markets, attracting buyers who value heritage and quality.

Empowerment of artisan communities: By safeguarding their traditional knowledge and craft identity, GI helps ensure artisans benefit economically and socially from their heritage.

Beyond GI, there are growing efforts by government, NGOs, and cultural organizations to preserve these crafts, through exhibitions, craft-based tourism, artisan cooperatives, documentation of traditional knowledge, revival efforts, and inclusion in cultural heritage initiatives.

Yet the challenge remains: modernisation, changing consumer tastes, urban migration, loss of traditional knowledge, these pose threats. Continued support, awareness, and responsible promotion are crucial to ensure these crafts survive and thrive for future generations.

Conclusion

Assam’s handicrafts, from bamboo baskets to bell-metal craft, from terracotta dolls to water-hyacinth bags, are not mere artefacts. They are living expressions of culture, history, environment, community, and identity. They resent the confluence of natural resources, traditional knowledge, artistic skill, and social values.

In a rapidly globalising world, where mass production often erases distinctiveness, these crafts stand as testimonies to human creativity, environment-friendly production, and cultural resilience. The GI-tag recognition of many such crafts gives hope, a path for sustainable livelihoods, protection of heritage, and global appreciation.

Assam’s handicrafts are a treasure, incredible, timeless, and deeply meaningful.

Explore India’s handloom heritage with RIPA — Banarasi to Chanderi, showcasing timeless traditions, craftsmanship, and artisanal excellence.Explore India’s handloom heritage with RIPA — Banarasi to Chanderi, showcasing timeless traditions, craftsmanship, and artisanal excellence.

November 18, 2025• BLOG

From Loom to Legacy Understanding India’s Handloom Heritage

From Loom to Legacy : Understanding India's Handloom Heritage

Overview

Handloom or Hath-karagha simply means making a piece of fabric or a thread by hand with the help of a loom tool or machine. This method of creating various clothes or threads is popular across the world. In India, handlooms are known for their quality, sustainability and the brilliance of amazing hardworking weavers.

We can call India a hub of amazing handloom products. Every region, whether it’s south or north, you can discover amazing handlooms, different and unique. Our weavers are extremely talented; without support from any public or private organisations, they have sustained thousands of handloom arts in India for years. These handlooms became their identity, income, and source of life.

Impact on culture and tradition is another way to see how these handmade necessities are so infused with human life. Gamosa of Assam to Banarasi Saree, without these garments rituals and ceremonies aren’t possible.

To make it sustainable in the upcoming future, our government recognises these brilliant handlooms with a Geographical Indication Tag. It helps them get limelight, representation on different business platforms and economic guidance.

History of Handlooms in India

Our sacred texts like the Rigveda mention weaving, and early civilization near the Indus River also showcases weaving history (tools and thread are discovered).

Textiles of India flourished during medieval times. Silks were one of the premium products of handlooms, which were treated as gold in that era. People from different parts of the world came to India to see and get inspired by our knowledge and techniques. Kings and people of higher status started weaving premium cloths, which resulted in the origin of Chanderi, Paithani and Kanjeevaram textiles.

Swadeshi Movement

To suppress the power of the British, our leaders started the Swadeshi Movement. The demand for handlooms rose and after independence, handlooms still played a major role in our post-independence economy.

In 2003, to safeguard the handloom industry and its related products, the government started a GI tag initiative. In this program, many handloom products are rewarded with a GI tag, which facilitates business and promotes them on the world stage.

GI Registered Handlooms in India

India has many handlooms under the GI registry. Below are some of the most iconic and culturally significant ones:

1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees

India has many handlooms under the GI registry. Below are some of the most iconic and culturally significant ones:

2. Bhagalpur Silk Fabrics & Sarees

Known as the “Silk City,” Bhagalpur in Bihar has a weaving legacy of more than 200 years. Bhagalpuri silk, especially tussar and eri varieties, is loved for its natural texture and earthy elegance. The sarees are lightweight, lustrous, and often feature unique tie-dye patterns.

3. Bodo Aronai

A cultural symbol of the Bodo community of Assam, Aronai is a traditional scarf used in ceremonies, dances, and as a sign of honour. Its bright red, yellow, and green patterns, woven on simple looms, capture the identity and pride of the region.

4. Chanderi Sarees

Chanderi, from Madhya Pradesh, is known for its gossamer-light texture. These sarees combine silk and cotton yarns to create fabrics that are sheer, elegant, and decorated with motifs inspired by nature and geometric patterns. Their shine and comfort make them popular for festive wear.

5. Gamosa of Assam

An emblem of Assamese culture, the Gamosa is a white cloth with distinctive red borders. It is used as a sign of respect, hospitality, and tradition. Beyond cultural use, it represents the weaving skill of Assam’s rural households.

6. Kashmir Pashmina

One of the finest and softest fibres in the world, Pashmina is hand-spun and hand-woven in Kashmir. Each shawl takes weeks or even months to craft. The fibre comes from the Changthangi goat, found in high-altitude Himalayan regions. A genuine Pashmina is warm, feather-light, and an embodiment of supreme craftsmanship.

7. Mirzapur Handmade Dari

Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh is known for its handmade daris (rugs). Woven in cotton or wool, these rugs feature bold geometric patterns and vibrant colours. They are durable, eco-friendly, and crafted using traditional pit looms.

8. Paithani Saree & Fabrics

Originating from Maharashtra, Paithani is celebrated for its peacock motifs, zari borders, and timeless designs. The weaving process is laborious, especially the handwoven pallu, which often showcases artistic scenes inspired by nature and mythology.

9. Rajkot Patola

A double-ikat masterpiece from Gujarat, Rajkot Patola reflects precision and high technical skill. The intricate dyeing process ensures identical patterns on both sides of the fabric. These sarees are rare, luxurious, and passed down through generations.

How Hand and Loom Process Together

Slow, precision and knowledge, three thumb rules of every handloom production.

Raw Materials

Different raw materials for different fabrics: cotton from the cotton plant, silk from silkworms and wool from sheep. Weavers choose material according to their needs and quality considerations.

Collection and Arrangement

Arranging raw materials together, cleaning and processing for the next step. It is required to arrange the raw fibre in order to make it easy to put on the loom.

Room for Loom

The main stage, where raw materials turn into magic fabric. Weavers select different types of looming tools according to their need and requirement.

Skill of Hand

The weaver skilfully attaches the raw fibre to the loom machine and starts the looming process. Hand movement, stability and correct body posture are a must to sit for hours during the handloom process.

Creativity and Creation

Different regions have their unique styles and techniques. Some use motifs, some use geometric patterns. Memory plays a major role in the creation of designs.

Various Textiles in Indian Handlooms

Silk

One of the biggest producers of silk worldwide is India. Mulberry silk (Karnataka and Banaras), Tussar silk from Bihar and Jharkhand, Assamese Eri silk, Muga silk (Assam) and others.

Cotton

Chanderi cotton, Bodo cotton weaves, Mirzapur cotton daris and many others.

Wool

Extracted from sheep, goat and other animals. For example: Kashmiri Pashmina wool (sheared from the Changthangi goat).

Many handlooms use a combination or mixture of all these fabrics. It all depends on the desired quality, need, location, environment and other factors.

Safe for Environment, Necessity for Humans

Handloom is currently the best choice for our environment and the betterment of people. It generates employment in rural areas; many households are dependent on the handloom industry.

After agriculture, handlooms are the second industry that keeps millions of people employed. If we move to more machines and unnatural methods for mass-producing synthetic fabrics, we might have to deal with an unemployed population. A greater environmental challenge is also concerning; factories exploit resources for their profits. To dye one piece of cloth, they waste a substantial amount of water. Synthetic fabrics create more health issues as we are not very used to them. So, for the sake of our own betterment, we should appreciate handloom weavers and not take handloom products for granted.

Conclusion

Weaving is one of the most important skills humans learned, which improves our presence, our space, and our lifestyles. Indian handlooms are world-renowned pieces of creation. Millions of people are still working day and night to sustain handlooms. Not just for survival — in most Indian cultures, handloom-made garments and accessories have become a major part of culture and tradition. Many ceremonies are not possible, like weddings or sacred rituals, without Banarasi Saree or Kanjeevaram Sarees.

In the fast-paced world, handlooms represent life, sustainability and human connection. We must preserve these old-age techniques and admit that modernisation can have a negative impact on the environment.

FAQs

Q1. How many types of handloom tools are used in India?

Vertical, frame and pit looms, and semi-automatic looms are major handloom tools in India.

Q2. How do GI recognitions help handloom weavers in the current fast-paced market?

GI helps handloom weavers by providing them recognition, promotion in various events, guidance and legal protection from exploitation.

Q3. Why are GI handloom products more expensive than machine-made products?

Handlooms, as the word itself explains, are created by weavers who work day and night by hand. That’s why handloom products are more expensive than machine-made products.

Q4. Are all handlooms safe for the environment?

Handlooms that use natural raw material and natural dyes are 100% sustainable and environmentally friendly. Some weavers may use synthetic fibre and dyes.

Q5. Which GI handlooms are recognised with a GI tag?

Pashmina from Kashmir, Chanderi from Madhya Pradesh, Eri Silk, Muga Silk and many other products are recognised with a GI tag.

November 7, 2025• BLOG

Colours of Legacy: Celebrating India’s Timeless Paintings

Colours of Legacy: Celebrating India's Timeless Paintings

Overview

India is one of the most fortunate countries in the world when it comes to art and culture. Indian paintings are incredible, diverse, and colourful, deeply connected to every aspect of the subcontinent’s culture, religion, and society. This diversity is reflected in everything from wall paintings to canvas paintings, and from traditional or folk art to modern art.

History of Paintings in India

You may have heard of or know about the Ajanta and Ellora Caves.

The Ajanta Caves depict the past lives and rebirths of the Buddha, along with other ancient tales, through magnificent paintings, making it one of the finest and most renowned examples of ancient Indian art.

During the medieval and early modern periods, various painting styles flourished across India. Different regions developed their own distinctive forms of art, giving rise to Mughal, Pahari, Rajasthani, and many other regional styles.

Painting in India is not uniform or static; rather, it is a continuous evolution from sacred wall art to paintings commissioned by royalty, folk traditions, and now to modern mediums.

Different GI Paintings in India

A key dimension in the contemporary effort to preserve traditional art-forms is the concept of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a legal and branding tool to protect regional origin, authenticity and craftsmanship. Some well-known painting styles in India that enjoy GI protection include:

1. Gond Painting of Madhya Pradesh

Traditional art form from Madhya Pradesh that transforms simple lines and dots into captivating stories of life, nature, and mythology. Each artwork is hand-painted using natural pigments from soil, plants, and charcoal, a true expression of creativity drawn from the earth itself.

2. Kangra Paintings

Kangra painting is a respected type of Pahari miniature art from Himachal Pradesh that began in the 18th century. Artists use natural pigments derived from minerals and plants, and fine brushes made of squirrel hair to achieve graceful lines and subtle shading.

3. Madhubani Paintings

Bihar’s most popular and celebrated art, Madhubani Painting (also called Mithila painting). It is known for its detailed designs and bright colors. Traditionally made on walls and floors, these artworks depict nature, mythology, and daily life using natural pigments. They feature symbols like fish for fertility and peacocks for love. Today, they are globally admired, showcasing India’s cultural heritage.

4. Bengal Patachitra

Bengal Patachitra is a traditional folk art form originating from West Bengal, India, known for its intricate designs and storytelling charm. This unique art style often portrays mythological tales, cultural traditions, and everyday rural life through detailed hand-painted scrolls.

5. Orissa Pattachitra

Orissa Pattachitra is a vibrant art form that combines cloth and illustrations, originating from Sanskrit. The art depicts mythological scenes and stories, connecting viewers to ancient tales of Krishna, Vishnu, Ramayana, and Mahabharata, making it culturally significant.

6. Pithora Painting of Madhya Pradesh

Pithora painting is a colorful art form by the Bhil and Rathwa tribes of Madhya Pradesh. It decorates village walls for special events, uses natural materials, and combines mythology and nature. The art preserves cultural heritage through vibrant designs and rituals.

7. Thanjavur Painting

Thanjavur Painting is one such handicrafts renowned for its vivid colors, detailed designs, and gold foil. They depict Hindu gods and goddesses and are made using natural pigments on wooden panels. These artworks represent spiritual themes and Indian culture, enhancing homes and temples with elegance.

8. Sohrai Khovar Painting

Sohrai Khovar Painting made by tribal women of Jharkhand. This art uses lines, dots, and shapes of animals and plants, featuring symbols like the Tree of Life and Pashupati.

9. Warli Painting

Warli painting is a traditional art from the Warli tribe in Maharashtra, India. It tells stories about rural life using simple white pigment on earthy backgrounds. The artwork features geometric patterns, stick figures, and motifs representing daily activities and nature. Warli paintings celebrate the tribe’s culture and are appreciated worldwide.

Types of Paintings

Canvas and Panel Paintings:

The most common and widely used form of painting around the world, it is the easiest way to portray your ideas or imagination on a blank surface.

Rock and Wall Paintings:

Before the invention of paper, most artists created their work on walls and rocks. The Last Supper is one of the greatest and most famous examples of wall painting in the world.

Miniature and Manuscript Paintings:

Painting on small surfaces requires precision, patience, and skill. These artworks are often created on paper, cloth, or leaves.

Tribal Paintings:

India is home to many tribes, each with its own distinctive art style. These works, created by rural or tribal communities, often reflect mythological, ritualistic, or everyday themes. Examples include Warli, Pithora, and Saura paintings.

Modern Paintings:

Modern paintings are more creative and experimental in terms of appearance, style, and expression.

Different Styles, Variety of Techniques & Methods

The variety of Indian painting techniques and styles is deeply rooted in geography, cultural traditions, and historical periods. Artists from different regions have developed their own artistic languages that reflect their lives, spiritual beliefs, and imagination.

Nature:

Many of India’s traditional painting techniques are directly inspired by the natural world. Without natural resources and inspiration from nature, these paintings would lose their very soul.

Fusion:

Many artisans fuse their artwork with multiple adornments — using wooden panels, applying chalk paste, and decorating with gold foil and semi-precious stones to create a rich, textured effect.

Sacred Art – Gods and Deities:

In several Indian regions, paintings depict gods, divine figures, and mythological stories. For example, Kangra paintings are renowned for portraying the divine romance of Radha and Krishna.

From the murals of Kerala and the Pithora art of Gujarat to the Kalighat paintings of Bengal, India’s diverse regional styles enrich its artistic heritage. What binds them together is a shared devotion to spirituality, nature, and community.

Struggles of Artisans

Copying and Imitations:

It is very easy and common to copy or imitate original artworks. Many popular paintings are reproduced by different sellers and sold at cheaper prices, diminishing the value of authentic creations.

Low Value for Artwork:

Most artisans are underpaid for their artwork. Hours of dedication and hard work often go unnoticed by buyers.

Poor Working Conditions:

In many rural and semi-urban areas, artisans work in cramped spaces with poor hygiene, inadequate rest, and no fixed working hours.

High Cost of Materials:

Essential materials such as natural pigments, gold foil, and quality base materials are becoming increasingly expensive, making it difficult for artisans to sustain their craft.

Limited Recognition and Branding:

Although GI tags provide some protection, many artisans are unaware of how to leverage them for marketing or value creation. Weak enforcement of authenticity further limits their ability to gain fair recognition and profit.

Conclusion

Painting is not just a piece of art to decorate our surroundings. Paintings hold a deeper meaning, for centuries, we communicated through pictures, figures, and signs. Development of the Human Brain, our communication and culture, without painting all these important factors that impacted our growth and dominance on the earth.

Today, for many, it’s just a hobby, but for artisans across the country, it’s the source and soul of their life. Creating art from nature, with creativity of mind and admirable skills of hand, should get desired recognition and reward. Appreciating, understanding, and supporting our local talented artisans is important now, not only does this initiative save artists, but also saves our culture, our rich history, and long preserved art styles.

FAQs

1. What makes Indian art styles great, unique, and different from paintings around the world?

Indian paintings are deeply connected to daily life, surroundings, and faith. Most traditional artworks are created using natural materials, reflecting harmony between art and nature.

2. What are the naturally available colours used in paintings?

Natural colours are derived from vegetables, spices, soil, and other organic materials. For example, turmeric is used for yellow, beetroot for red, and soil for shades of brown and black.

3. When did painting as an art form begin in India?

Painting in India has a history of nearly 2,200 years. The Ajanta Caves serve as a prime example of India’s ancient and rich painting tradition.

4. How did painting flourish in modern India?

The modern art movement in India began in Calcutta (now Kolkata). During the 19th century, the British established art schools in Bengal, which played a key role in shaping modern Indian art.

5. How did Raja Ravi Varma gain popularity? Are there other renowned painters in India?

Raja Ravi Varma gained fame by blending traditional Indian themes with modern European techniques. His works appealed to both the elite and the common people of India. Other renowned Indian painters include Amrita Sher-Gil, M. F. Husain, and S. H. Raza, who are celebrated for their remarkable contributions to Indian art.

October 27, 2025• BLOG

Threads of Heritage: The Timeless Elegance Indian Embroidery

Threads of Heritage: The Timeless Elegance of Indian Embroidery

Overview

Before we deep down in the history of embroidery, its importance, cultural significance, and the struggles of artists behind this amazing art style. Let’s take a look at the basics we know about embroidery.

Embroidery is an art of decorating any material (mostly it is done on cloth). We all might have done embroidery during our childhood. Remember making your name initial on a handkerchief, that’s the simplest way you can figure out what embroidery is and why it’s popular. It turns basic fabric into a beautiful piece of art.

History

There are references to embroidered clothes in sacred texts like the Rig Veda and the Ramayana. Tools such as needles and other materials used in embroidery were discovered during the survey of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro sites. All these facts confirm that embroidery work has been going on for more than 1000 years.

Embroidery flourished as a royal craft during the Mauryan and Gupta empires, and it was used to decorate temples, wall hangings, and clothing.

As India’s kingdoms grew, regional forms emerged.

Kantha from Bengal
Phulkari from Punjab
Lucknow’s Chikankari
Gujarat Kutch Embroidery
Rajasthan Mirror Embroidery
Zardosi in various parts of the country

British colonization changed customary trade patterns and brought new materials like synthetic dyes. Despite industrialization, hand embroidery continued to play a significant role in Indian culture, appearing in regional clothing, festivals, and weddings.

Indian embroidery is still very popular today, combining traditional and modern styles to support rural livelihoods and appeal to a worldwide fashion audience.

Recognition through the Geographical Indication Tag

To honour and protect its cultural and artistic identity, the GI tag recognizes embroidery across the nations. The GI tag safeguards their artistry from imitation and mass-produced copies, ensuring fair recognition and value for their authentic handwork.

1. Lucknow Chikan Craft

Lucknow Chikan Craft is indeed a very alluring art reflecting the rich culture of India. Intricate designs crafted by hand on light fabrics with traditional Chikan designs make it comfortable to wear in any season. This craft is more than fashion; it gives respect to the ancient history of this city.

2. Phulkari

Phulkari is a traditional embroidery art from Punjab, known for its vibrant floral patterns and intricate stitching. The craft involves using colourful silk threads on coarse cotton fabric, creating stunning geometric and floral designs. Historically, Phulkari was an essential part of Punjabi women’s attire, symbolizing cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

3. Sujini Embroidery Work of Bihar

Artisans make Sujini embroidery by hand with beautiful stitches and strong threads, so you get silky, smooth, lightweight fabrics that won’t irritate your skin. They create one-of-a-kind styles and colours that don’t fade. It’s a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Bihar. For those who look for real artistry.

4. Chamba Rumal

A unique embroidered art from Chamba, a picturesque town in Himachal Pradesh, India. Known for its delicate craftsmanship, this art involves fine embroidery on a cloth piece using untwisted silk threads. The designs often depict scenes from mythology, epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, and everyday life, showcasing intricate patterns and vibrant colours.

5. Gujarat Suf Embroidery

Gujarat Suf embroidery is a traditional craft from the Kutch region, characterized by its detailed geometric patterns created entirely by counting the warp and weft threads on the fabric. The designs are typically symmetrical, featuring motifs inspired by nature. This embroidery is done with vibrant silk threads on cotton or silk fabrics, showcasing the artisan’s exceptional skill in precision and attention to detail.

Process of Embroidery

The combination of creative skills and technical knowledge results in the art of embroidery. The process involves several careful steps:

1. Designing on Paper

The very first step of embroidery begins with selecting the right design and determining which pattern or motif complements the theme or idea behind the creation. There are multiple designs, such as geometric, floral, natural, traditional, sacred figures, and any other self-created designs. Artisans draw their design by hand or print it before transferring it onto the fabric.

2. Transferring the Design to Fabric

After making and finalising the design, multiple tools of copying are used to transfer the design on the fabric. Artisans used trace paper, carbon sheets, or light boxes and many other copying devices to get the exact design on the fabric. In traditional techniques, the contours are marked by artists using template designs or chalk powder. This stage guarantees that the embroidery stitches are made according to a precise guide.

3. Fabric and Thread Selection

Choosing the right fabric and thread is the most important decision; the quality, durability, texture, and feasibility of designs depend on this decision. There are various kinds of fabric, such as silk, cotton, velvet, linen etc, and thread such as silk, cotton, wool, and metallic. Artisans select embroidery materials as per their need, budget, and availability.

4. Setting the Fabric in a Frame

A hoop or frame is used to tightly hold and stretch the fabric. When stitching, this maintains the surface’s solidity and avoids puckering or creases. Additionally, it permits smooth needlework and even tension.

5. Stitching the Design

True embroidery starts with stitching; we often call this process the definition of embroidery. Artisans select the stitching method (running stitch, cross-stitch, stem stitch or satin stitch) as per their needs; it’s mainly done by hand, and some hand-held tools (machines are used only for large-scale production).

6. Decorations as per requirements

To make it more eye-catching and vibrant, different decoration elements like mirrors, pearls, beads, and sequins are added. For example, metallic threads and mirrors are used in Kutch embroidery.

7. Finishing, Cleaning, and Preservation

After completing embroidery, fabric is washed to remove dirt and ironed for final touch. Loose threads are trimmed and inspected for quality. The finished piece is stored in a soft cloth to prevent damage.

Struggles of Artisans in the Indian Embroidery Industry

1. Low Wages and Lack of Recognition

Most artisans receive payment based on piecework, which is very low; hours of hard work won’t be considered for reward. Branding and Designers take all the credit, and the real artisans barely get any recognition.

2. Poor Working Conditions

Artisans work in a pathetic environment (cluttered spaces, poor hygiene, and no proper tools and gadgets). All this impacts the health of the artisans; they suffer from eye strain, back pain, and other health issues.

3. Declining Traditional Skills

As time passes, it becomes difficult to preserve old techniques and methods without any support from the government or other non-profit organisations. Many embroidery methods now require documentation to safeguard their techniques and processes. New artisans must be trained and cherished to continue these old embroidery crafts.

4. Lack of Market Access and Fair Trade

Most artisans depend on local traders, who often dictate prices and control supply chains. Limited awareness of online selling or branding keeps them disconnected from potential buyers.

5. Modernization, Machine and Mass Production

Modern methods and machines are the need of the hour to meet the demands of a large population. However, hand-embroidered items are more costly and require longer to complete. This change diminishes the value of hand craftsmanship and discourages traditional artisans.

6. Rising Cost of Raw Materials and Lack of Financial Support

The prices of raw materials are constantly rising. Thread, cloth, needles, and other tools have become more expensive than ever. Although government schemes exist for handicrafts and handlooms, awareness among artisans is low. Without business knowledge or marketing skills, they remain dependent on intermediaries.

Modern Revival and Relevance of Embroidery in India

The art of embroidery is experiencing a resurgence as sustainable fashion trends become popular among the younger generation, and designers need traditional artisans to create sustainable clothing for modern consumers.

Mixing and blending traditional techniques with modern styles results in new patterns and designs, making embroidery fresh and relevant to current trends and fashion. Meanwhile, hand embroidery has its own aesthetic appeal and is highly valued as an enduring art that connects India’s past with the present.

Conclusion

Indian embroidery is deeply rooted in our culture and tradition. Each region has its own unique styles and methods, and talented artisans across the country workday and night to create truly remarkable pieces of art. Many organisations are helping artisans associated with embroidery by educating, providing them a stage and fair-trade opportunities. The government’s GI tag recognition also helps in preserving these embroidery crafts and connecting them globally.

October 9, 2025• BLOG

Crafted by nature, Nurtured by hands, Wood Crafts

The Soul of Wood: Celebrating India’s GI Craft Heritage

History

You know, wood tools were used for the first time during the Stone Age. Over time, humans learned various survival skills, and wood became an important resource for us. It was used as fuel for heaters and for cooking, for building shelter.

Definitely the most important natural resource.

Apart from the role in the survival of humans, early civilizations prove that Wood is used widely in art and craft worldwide. Woodcraft practices were found across ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China. Indian woodcraft also has a rich history. Crafts from ancient times are still alive in many parts of the country.

A Legacy Rooted in Nature and Devotion

India is a country where natural resources are treated as God. We celebrate our resources during festivals, cultural ceremonies, and traditions. As we learned that wood is goated natural resource, it has been ingrained with our culture and tradition for centuries.

We used wood for various sacred purposes. We built temples, carved idols out of wood, our rituals include uses of wood as burning sacred fire. and offerings, everything connected with woods.

Artisans across India produced brilliant artwork by carving woods, Etikoppaka Toys from Andhra Pradesh renowned for unique lacquerware crafts made from fine-grained Ankudu wood, Channapatna lacquerware of Karnataka, shines with natural colors derived from vegetable dyes, and Saharanpur wood carvings is popular for their unique designs and pattern.

For protecting and safeguarding these crafts from copying or unfair trade, the Government recognizes these craft with GI tag. Some popular GI wood crafts are:

GI Wood Crafts

Channapatna Toys & Dolls

Channapatna artisans create toys and dolls that blend traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary designs. These colorful, safe toys are made from environmentally friendly materials and reflect Channapatna’s cultural heritage. With their vibrant colors and detailed patterns, they provide joy and imagination, making them perfect gifts for oneself or others.

Chitrakoot Wooden Craft & Toys

Chitrakoot Wooden Craft & Toys showcases India’s artisanal heritage through eco-friendly, handcrafted creations. These toys feature intricate designs and vibrant colors, making them ideal gifts or collectibles.

Etikoppaka Toys

The vibrant Etikoppaka toys, handcrafted from sustainable wood and natural dyes in Andhra Pradesh, reflect a rich cultural heritage. These uniquely designed toys not only stimulate creativity and fine motor skills in children but also offer an engaging way to connect with Indian traditions. They encourage screen-free imaginative play, support local artisans in preserving traditional crafts, and contribute to sustainable livelihoods.

Kashmir Walnut Wood Carving

Artisans in Kashmir emphasize their rich craft heritage by creating detailed walnut wood carvings. They sculpt unique furniture and decorative items using high-quality wood. The intricate designs feature floral and geometric patterns. Finished products are polished to enhance the wood’s natural beauty, showcasing the artisans’ skill and cultural legacy.

Saharanpur Wood Crafts

Saharanpur Wood Craft reflects India’s rich cultural heritage through skilled artisans who create intricate designs on high-quality wood. These durable and functional pieces enhance any interior while embodying the spirit of India. Each carved item carries its own story, linking the observer to the timeless traditions of Indian artistry and craftsmanship.

Varanasi Wooden Lacquerware & Toys

Varanasi wooden toys showcase the creativity of local craftsmen, using natural dyes from local woods. These toys often depict animals, birds, or mythological figures and are made with traditional tools, ensuring they are light, durable, and safe for children. The craft is passed down through generations, representing India’s cultural heritage.

Challenges, Process and Creation

Making wood crafts or anything out of wood is not easy. Woodcraft needs the knowledge and skill of artisans. Some woods are perishable; to make them survive for a long period, processes like seasoning of wood or chemical treatments are necessary. Many renowned wood crafts are only possible today because of artisans and their years of preserved knowledge.

Wood carving is a rigorous process; it requires precision with utmost attention from the craftsman. The method of production can broadly be divided into five stages: Seasoning, chemical treatment, Carving, Polishing, and Finishing.

Woodcarving: Shaping life out of wood

This is the most challenging part in wood crafts, carving design and pattern with hands takes time, creativity, and knowledge of the right tools like knives or chisels.

Every region in India has its own design patterns, some carve motifs, floral or geometric, many carve different pieces of wood and combine together to make one piece of wood craft. To make it ready for the market, the last stage of wooden craft requires polishing with wax or oil. Any sharp edges are later corrected with fine touch-up.

Diverse Country, Diverse Crafts Techniques

From small villages to the oldest cities, Jammu and Kashmir to Andaman and Nicobar, wood crafts represent their identity and heritage.

Tools and Utility items: To make tools like a comb or spoon, fine cutting of wood is required. Rajouri Chikri Wood Craft of Jammu is one of the specialists in making these kinds of utility items.

Game and Sports: Kashmir Willow Bat is widely popular for its durability and exquisite craftsmanship.

Metal Fusion: Surat Sadeli Craft is a handicraft where metal work is done on wooden surfaces.

Wood Crafted Toys: Etikoppaka toys and Channapatna Toys & Dolls are renowned examples of Toy woodcraft.

Sustainability: Safeguarding Nature with Wood Crafts

Wood is a bio product of nature, and we are using it from early civilizations. Renewable and environmentally friendly, the two most important characteristics of wood, which makes it perfect for the current era, as sustainability is one main SDG goal.

Wood-made crafts are important for nature. There are so many products we can easily replace with wood made products. We are already noticing the shift in many countries where sustainable products are getting popularised among the public. The most relevant example of this is in the use of paper bags.

Not only paper bags, but wood also made furniture, art-pieces, and utility items are getting popular among eco-conscious buyers. Our government also recognises these sustainable crafts with the GI tag or ODOP initiative. For example, Saharanpur wood craft is recognized with GI Tag and ODOP.

Woodcrafts Economy: Representing Country and Craftsman

Artisans cannot source raw materials from different places. Only locally available trees are used for crafting. As time passes, these crafts become part of our lifestyle, culture, and tradition. Millions of families depend on wood crafting across nations.

The major economy of places like Saharnapur, Channapatna and many other small villages depend on the wood crafts industry. Businesses run because of goods produced by artisans from these places. Some crafts sell at a global level, which contributes to the economy of the country.

Preserving the Past, Inspiring Tomorrow

We discussed the importance of wood crafts, and we know India is blessed with extraordinary wood crafts. All these crafts represent us globally, we should be proud and honoured to have these amazing crafting techniques, which are so rooted in our culture and tradition.

Artpieces, Utilities, Toys, and Furniture, all these products are available in plastic. Not only available, widely used, and popular. We must take the initiative to educate the general people about wood crafts, rich history, and its relevance for today. Protecting and safeguarding these crafts is a need of the hour.

FAQs

1. What inspired craftsmen to choose wood for their arts and crafts?

Nature, Artisan are mostly inspired by the beauty of nature, and woods are perfect to use as a medium to display art and creativity.

2. What are the processes involved in wood crafting?

Seasoning and chemical treatments of wood are necessary before the actual art carving. These processes enhance wood quality, making it durable enough for prolonged use.

3. Which Tree wood is mostly used in wood crafting?

Indian Rosewood, Teak Wood, and Sal Wood are mainly used in wood crafting, as they are superior and ideal for wood crafting.

4. What are the different techniques that are still preserved by artisans?

In India, many regions still carry their woodcraft heritage from generations. Saharanpur and Kashmir, where artisans chisel floral and jali (lattice) patterns for making artistic furniture. In Channapatna, where artisans used cylindrical pieces of wood for creating unique toys.

5. What makes wood crafts important in modern spaces, as 3d printing might be our future?

Wood made crafts are sustainable and ecofriendly. Modern space needs something that connects us to nature, and wood crafts are perfect to remind us of the importance of the environment.

September 30, 2025• BLOG

Festive Sweets – A Taste of Culture

“Sweetness of Tradition, Joy of Celebration – Festive Sweets”

Overview

Not just a delicacy; Sweets are our emotions, love, and part of celebration. We may not exchange gifts, but sweets must be shared during any Indian Festivals. But have we ever thought about how deep the connection of sweets runs with our culture and traditions?

The Eternal Bond of Sweets and Festivals

Festivals are incomplete without sweets. It represents purity, happiness, and prosperity in everything from temple ceremonies to weddings, regional festivals to nationwide celebrated festivals like Diwali.

Jaggery, honey, and ghee were offered in rituals during the Vedic era (1500 BCE), this might be the earliest record of Indian sweets. After the discovery of sugarcane, India was called the “country of sugar” and as a result, countless sweet recipes were created and shared all over the world.

Every festival carries a signature sweet:

Diwali → Ladoos is used for religious offerings in Diwali. Soan Papdi is the most common sweet on diwali, whereas Kaju Katli counts as premium sweets.

Holi → Thandai sweets are a major part of holi celebrations, mostly people enjoy thandai and dance with joy and colors. Gujiya, Malpua is prepared for guests and relatives.

Durga Puja → Sandesh, Rasmalai is a traditional sweet from Bengal. During Durga Puja these sweets are offered to the Goddess, distributed to visitors, and consumed throughout the celebration.

Ganesh Chaturthi→ Celebrated mainly in Maharashtra, in this, a dumpling-style sweet, which is known as Modak, is prepared to offer to Ganesh ji.

Pongal → A sweet dish, Sakkarai, is prepared to celebrate the harvesting season in Tamil Nadu.

The Magic of Ingredients

Just as silk is the premium of fabrics, desi ghee, dry fruits, and pure sugar/jaggery are the luxury of Indian mithai.

Ghee brings richness & purity
Dry fruits add royalty & nutrition.
Kesar & Cardamom for divine fragrance

These ingredients represent wealth, success, and good fortune. It also offers many health benefits, which is important because sweets are generally considered unhealthy. Staples like jaggery, coconut and different flours and nuts are very common ingredients for sweets all over India. But many region has its own special ingredients, such as cucumbers (like Dhondas) in the West, winter melon (Petha) in the North, apricots (Khubani ka Meetha) in Hyderabad, ragi (Ragi Manni) in the South, and fresh oranges (Komolar Kheer) in Assam.

From Temples to Homes

Sweets and Fruits are the main religious offerings in India. Some temples have their unique sweets for offerings, such as Kara Prasadam in Golden Temple (Punjab), Tirupati Laddu in Sri Vari Temple (Tirupati), and Chak-Hao-Kheer in Sri Govindajee Temple (Imphal).

Over time, people followed the trend and started preparing sweets in their home for religious offerings and to celebrate festivals at home. Many sweets are made as per long family tradition and culture in different places all over in India.

Regional Gems of Festive Sweets

India is a treasure chest of sweets, each state adding its flavor to the festive table:

West Bengal → Rasgulla, Sandesh, Mishti Doi

Maharashtra → Modak, Puran Poli

Rajasthan → Ghevar, Mawa Kachori

Tamil Nadu → Payasam, Adirasam

Punjab → Pinni, Patisa

Kerala → Unniyappam, Ada Pradhaman

Apart from this some sweets are recognised by GI Tag for their long history, uniqueness and cultural value.

GI Cherieshed Sweets - Honouring Our Culture and History

Banglar Rosogolla (West Bengal)

A sugary treat from West Bengal, known as Rasogolla, highlights the region’s culinary tradition. Developed by Nobin Chandra Das in the 19th century, these soft spheres made from chhena and sugar syrup are celebrated for their texture and sweetness.

Odisha Rasagola (Odisha)

Odisha’s Rasagola is a distinct type of cottage cheese ball, famous for its softer texture and caramel-like brown color. The origin of rasgola remains a debatable topic for years. Many believe it originated from Odisha.

Tirupati Laddu (Andhra Pradesh)

After worshiping Lord Venkateswara at the Sri Vari Temple in Tirupathi, pilgrims receive Sri Vari laddu or Tirupathi laddu as prasadam. This tradition dates back to the temple’s founding. The laddu is the main offering to Lord Venkateswara, known as Naivedhyam.

Mysore Pak (Karnataka)

Mysore Pak is a traditional sweet dish originating from the royal kitchens of Mysore, Karnataka, India, made with gram flour (besan), sugar, and ghee. It is known for its rich, dense, and melt-in-the-mouth texture, similar to a fudge, and is a popular sweet savored during festivals and celebrations across South India.

Silao Khaja (Bihar)

Silao Khaja is a special treat from Bihar known for its crunch, fluffiness, and sweetness. Made by skilled confectioners, it comes in multiple layers and is perfect as a snack or to impress guests. Visitors to Bihar should definitely try it for its unique taste and texture.

These sweets have unique origins and qualities, such as the use of specific ingredients or traditional preparation methods, protected by the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Many other popular sweets such as Anarsa, Tilkut, khoya lai from gaya and Peda from mathura are in the process of getting a GI Tag.

Sweet Making – From Hands to Hearts

Mithai making is as complex and creative as a craft or a masterpiece of art. The process is not just cooking; it involves many important steps, attention, and knowledge. To make a soul-pleasing mithai, the right ingredients, technique, and cooking skills are a must .

Basic Steps Are:

Selection of ingredients: Finest raw sugar, fresh milk, hand-ground spices.

Cooking with care: slow stirring, boiling, shaping.

Finishing: garnishing with saffron strands, silver leaf, and almonds.

Mithai makers (halwais) are the unsung heroes of festivals, keeping alive centuries-old recipes. Some sweet recipes are surviving today only because of our culture and festivals.

Sweets in Modern Celebrations

Traditional sweets are still dominating and can’t be compared to today’s modernised sweets. Modern twists, sweets like chocolate barfi, fusion cakes, and sugar-free laddoos have emerged for younger generations. Yet, the soul of festive sweets remains unchanged.

Even globally, Indian mithai is making its mark at weddings, international food fairs, and stores in cities like London, Dubai, and New York.

Why Festive Sweets Remain Irreplaceable

“Kuch meetha ho jaye” is the most common phrase we use during any greeting or celebrations. This proves how sweets have become a part of our everyday lives.

During Festive seasons, markets are flooded with sweets, every sweets shop is decorated with a big colorful shed, and long queues of shoppers wait to get their favourite sweets for celebrations. This sudden growth of consumers in the market benefits most of the business,including businesses dealing in sweets. Every year these businesses wait for festivals, to earn extra profit. When something becomes so valuable for our businesses and the economy of the country., it won’t be replaceable. Unlike modern desserts, festive mithai holds culture, blessings, and nostalgia.

Conclusion – A Bite of Heritage

Sweets are a blessing wrapped in the flavours of every corner of this country. It’s part of our culture, a culture that represents us worldwide.

Passing a mithai box to neighbors or exchanging sweets during festivals is not just a gesture; it’s a tradition that showcases our unity and bonding.

FAQs

1. Why are sweets so important in Indian festivals?

Festivals means celebration, and to celebrate we organise feasts. We need sweets to perform our rituals during festivals, we need sweets to celebrate our joy during festivals, we need sweets to complete our feasts during festivals. The necessity of sweets makes it very important to us in festivals.

2. Are festive sweets healthy?

Most sweets are full of sugar, but many sweets are fused with dry fruits, seeds and other healthy ingredients like jaggery, ghee and milk and dry fruits.

3. Which sweets are most popular during Diwali?

Ladoo, barfi, kaju katli, gulab jamun, and soan papdi are the most common Diwali sweets.

4. Are there regional variations in festival sweets?

Yes, India’s variety is evident in its sweets, such as Bengal’s Sandesh, Karnataka’s Mysore Pak, Agra’s Petha, and Maharashtra’s Modak.

5. Are GI-tagged sweets available in India?

Yes, many sweets have GI tags, such as Tirupati Laddu, Dharwad Peda, and Banglar Rasogolla, which certify their authenticity.

Discover silk sarees—woven in tradition, crafted by artisans, and cherished in festivals, weddings, and modern fashion across generations.

September 19, 2025• BLOG

Silk Saree – Draped in Heritage, Designed for Today

Draped in Heritage, Designed for Today- Saree of Silk

The Saree – An Eternal Attire

Saree, a piece of cloth, a type of garment in the women’s wear section. Do we know only this, or do we have more to explore and learn about sarees?

For thousands of years, a garment that covers our bodies has been part of our life, culture, and tradition. Not just another piece of clothing, a Saree is more valuable and way different from modern clothing. The history of the saree dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization (3300-1300 BCE). People in the past knew little about fashion. When humans learned to cover themselves, they started with a draping technique, just covering the major body parts with a piece of cloth. This drape of a piece of cloth was the earliest form of the saree.

In Sanskrit, a Saree is determined by different words, such as “sati” or “satika,”. These words simply mean a strip of cloth. Not only in Sanskrit, but also in many different languages, the saree is described differently, but it clearly confirms that the saree shares a long history.

Over time, different draping techniques and materials came into existence. If we take an example of our country India, more than 100 different methods are well-known and in use across different states. In Maharashtra, women wear a saree in nauvari style, Tamil Nadu women wear a saree in Madisar style, and Gujarat women wear a saree in Seedha Palu style. All parts of India have established their own individuality through the saree.

One thing that remains intact is its connection with being feminine, cultural, and a work of art.

The Magic of Silk

There is always a top-tier category in every kind of product available in the market. Saree is made from various kinds of fabrics, but no fabric can match the premiumness and luxurious feel of silk. In the saree world, silk fabric counts as a top-tier fabric.

In the past, only rich and prestigious people could wear silk. Apart from luxury, silk has many qualities: It is smooth, glossy, long-lasting, and has good thermal control.

History of Silk

In ancient China, a Queen accidentally unravelled silk cocoons when one fell into her tea. Silk became a popular fabric after it was discovered, and it was used to make a wide range of personal and domestic goods.

4,000 years back, India also started its own silk weaving traditions. Silk was as valuable as gold at that time. Only rulers and other highly ranked officers had access to this gem-like fabric. Temples used to create unique silk attire for our deities. It has always been associated with royalty and spirituality.

India has contributed to the legacy of silk sarees. Every state has its own history of silk sarees; some popular and mainstream silk sarees are Chanderi Saress from Madhya Pradesh, Kanjeevaram from Tamil Nadu, Rajkot Patola from Gujarat, Bhagalpur Silk from Bihar, Muga silk from Assam, Paithani from Maharashtra, Baluchari from Bengal, and Mysore silk from Karnataka.

Currently, India is the second-largest producer of silk in the world, and uniquely, the only country to produce all four commercial varieties: Mulberry, Tussar, Muga, and Eri.

Silk Sarees in Indian Festivals and Traditions

In India, festivals and ceremonies are incomplete without silk sarees. They are considered auspicious and are often chosen for special occasions like weddings, pujas, and cultural celebrations.

Weddings: The bride’s primary wedding dress in southern India is a Kanjeevarm saree adorned with pure gold zari. The Banarasi silk saree is a bride’s dress in Bengal as well.

Festivals: It’s a gold standard to wear silk sarees in festivals like Diwali, Durga Puja, Pongal, or Onam. Vibrant colours and spiritual patterns are unmatched; no other saree can compete with the silk saree in festivals.

Rituals & Ceremonies: Silk sarees are often used in many functions, whether it’s childbirth ceremonies, housewarming rituals, or anniversaries. These sarees are seen as blessings for prosperity and longevity.

Temple Culture: We offer money, fruits, sweets, and expensive items to our deities. Apart from these offerings, silk saree is another thing we offer to our god, because silk fabric is considered sacred, a symbol of purity and devotion.

From Threads to Tradition

The silk saree-making process is very complex. Craftsmen often work day and night (some sarees require months) to create a single saree. It involves multiple steps, from raising silkworms to weaving the final fabric.

Sericulture: Cultivation of silkworms to produce silk is the first step in the creation of a silk saree.
Thread Extraction: Workers extract the thread one by one from harvested silkworm cocoons.
Yarn Production: To make a single silk thread. Extracted natural fibres are spun, twisted, cleaned, bleached, and dyed in different colours.
Weaving: Final threads are set on looms to create fabric. Most challenging and complex task, it requires utmost attention and skill.
Finishing: In the final stage, Silk fabric is washed and dried before being cut and sewn into sarees for sale.

Cultural Fusion

The design and pattern on the silk saree represent our culture.

Some patterns carry deep cultural meanings, such as

Paisleys represent fertility and growth.
Lotus is seen as a symbol of purity and divinity.
Peacock is a symbol of beauty, royalty, pride, immortality, rebirth, and watchfulness.
Temple borders and checks reflect tradition and culture.

This cultural symbolism makes silk sarees more than clothing—they are storytelling canvases. Owning one is like holding a piece of history, culture, and identity.

Recognition of Art and Artist

In India, the saree industry provides livelihood to millions of artisans. Generations of families are associated with the saree-making business. Both technique and tradition advanced significantly. Handloom clusters are not just economic hubs but cultural reservoirs where skills, songs, and stories revolve around the craft.

Many handloom craft and traditional silk sarees are now recognized with a geographical indication tag, such as

Banaras Brocades and Sarees

Known for vibrant and long-lasting colours, these textiles reflect India’s rich heritage and artistry, making them essential for those who appreciate traditional weaving.

Bhagalpur Silk Fabrics & Sarees

Bhagalpur Silk, renowned as the “Queen of Silks,” blends tradition with modern style. Handwoven by skilled artisans, its rich texture and natural shine make it perfect for sarees, suits, scarves, or home décor.

Chanderi Sarees

Renowned for their sheer texture, lightweight feel, and graceful drape, these sarees are adorned with motifs of peacocks, lotuses, and geometric patterns in shimmering gold and silver threads.

Eri Silk

Eri Silk / Indi Silk from Assam, known as “Ahimsa Silk,” is soft, breathable, and eco-friendly with a unique matte finish. Handwoven with natural dyes, it reflects India’s heritage and sustainable craftsmanship.

Paithani Saree & Fabrics

Paithani Sarees, which have designs over 2000 years old. Each saree features rich borders and a grand pallu with peacocks and lotuses in gold and silver threads.

Rajkot Patola

Handwoven silk textile from Gujarat, featuring intricate double ikat patterns. Famous for its detailed double ikat patterns, these sarees symbolize heritage and luxury.

Srikalahasthi Kalamkari

Srikalahasthi Kalamkari is a traditional Indian art form with deep cultural and spiritual significance, renowned for its intricate hand-painted and dyed designs.

GI Tag aids local artisans in gaining global recognition and safeguarding their work from copying and misuse.

Silk Saree in Fashion and Modern Trends

No matter what is in fashion or whatnot, what is trending or whatnot, Sarees will always dominate over any other modern fashion or trend. To make traditional weaving methods appealing to younger generations, contemporary designers are fusing them with contemporary styles.

Global Appeal

Silk saree is applauded and appreciated for its beauty and charm at international fashion shows. Foreigners are going crazy to wear a saree and attend our weddings in popular cities like New York, London, and Tokyo. International celebrities have been spotted draping sarees in many events.

Why Silk Sarees Remain Irreplaceable

Some things never change; some things remain evergreen. Silk saree is deeply rooted in our culture and tradition. In some families, mothers preserve silk sarees to pass them on to their daughter-in-law. Unlike fast fashion, a silk saree lasts decades, growing more valuable with time, often becoming a family treasure.

Every silk saree is linked with memories of occasions, blessings, and milestones. Wearing one is not just about fashion; it’s about honouring heritage, celebrating womanhood, and carrying forward cultural pride.

Conclusion – Weaving the Past into the Future

Silk saree connects generations, inspires creativity, and holds cultural depth. For the survival of our tradition, heritage, and culture, the silk saree must be cherished among the young generations.

When you drape a silk saree, you do not just wear six or nine yards of fabric—you wear centuries of tradition, the dreams of weavers, the blessings of ancestors, and the elegance of timeless fashion. Truly, it is not just a saree; it is a legacy woven in silk.

FAQs

How is silk fabric made? Is it synthetic or Natural?

We get silk from silkworms. Multiple methods are used to convert the silkworm cocoon into fine silk fabric. As we get silkworms from nature, silk fabric is a totally natural fabric.

What makes a silk saree different from other sarees?

Silk fabric is known for its strength and shine. It is a premium fabric; no other fabric saree can match the quality of a silk saree.

Why is the silk saree valued in our culture and traditions?

Silk is a sacred cloth, and we have been wearing silk sarees for years during our festivals and ceremonies.