Rajasthani Handicrafts: Intro
Rajasthan is a beautiful place situated in the western part of a diverse country known as India. India has always been known for its history as well as its culture. Rajasthan is also a place full of traditional vibes, cultural norms, vibrant colours, forts, palaces, and many more. But above all one main thing that Rajasthan is famous for is its Rajasthani Handicrafts.
History of Handicrafts in Rajasthan:
Rajasthani Handicrafts were first crafted in the 18th century under the rule of Raja Sawai Maan Singh II. He was a very creative person and was always known for his creativity. He started the trend of Handicrafts in Rajasthan. At that time, Handicrafts were crafted in almost all parts of the country. There were several Handicrafts like Kashmiri Handicrafts, Handicrafts of North, Etc. So Raja Sawai Maan Singh II thought of producing Handicrafts. He used to travel a lot and he had some knowledge of Handicrafts. So he called some artisans from different parts of the country who were experts in crafting Handicrafts.
Rajasthani Handicrafts: Details
The king told them to craft something based on Rajasthani culture and tradition. The artisans took around a week to study and understand the culture of Rajasthan. After a week they crafted some handicraft items such as Miniature Paintings, Wooden Decoratives, Wall Art, etc. They presented before the king those items. On seeing those items the king became delighted. He then rewarded the artisans. The artisans were so moved by the culture and tradition of Rajasthan that they thought of staying in Rajasthan and crafting Rajasthani Handicrafts. They all stayed and not only crafted Handicrafts but also taught the native people the skill and art of crafting Rajasthani Handicrafts.
Initially, when the production of Handicraft Items started in Rajasthan there were only a few people joined. They all crafted Handicrafts and exported them to different states. The kings of different states used the handicrafts of Rajasthan to decorate their huge palaces. They all loved Rajasthani Handicrafts and the way they were made representing their culture.
Present Scenario of Rajasthani Handicrafts:
At present, Rajasthan is home to around 6 lakh artisans. They all craft Rajasthani Handicrafts every day. These handicrafts are then exported to different states and countries. There are several in-house small-scale industries that are situated in Rajasthan. Handicrafts are the best handicrafts of all time. India exports around 3-4$ billion worth of Handicrafts every year and this number is increased in the past few decades. Countries like the USA, UK, UAE, Italy, Germany, Australia, France, New Zealand, and many more.
Handicraft Items produced in Rajasthan:
Thousands of different handicrafts are currently produced in Rajasthan, including blue pottery, textiles, miniature paintings, Rajasthani juttis, wooden furniture, marble items, statues, sculptural pieces, lamps, wooden decorations, gemstone cutting, jewellery, ivory jewellery, Kundan jewellery, Meenakari jewellery, wall clocks, leather items, chowkis, and bajots, among many others. You can look up Rajasthani Handicrafts Online if you want to see some crafts.
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