[netfree]

In a country as diverse and complex as India, it is not surprising to find that the traditional art here reflect the rich glories of the past, the culture, traditions and values relative to geographic locations and the numerous distinctive manners and habits that will always remain truly Indian.

The rich craft heritage of India is unique and diverse as its customs and traditions. Each part of the country has its own unique cultural ethos, which is manifested in the handicrafts of that particular region. Indian crafts and handicraft traditions are influenced by local topography, climate, and socio-religious factors. These craft traditions have withstood the ravages of time and numerous foreign invasions and continue to flourish till date owing to the assimilative nature of Indian culture and broadmindedness of the craftsmen to accept and use new ideas.

Indian craft tradition has no parallel in the world, in diversity as well as in technique and use of materials. The craft traditions of India vary from region to region. These crafts not only cater to the day-to-day needs of the people but are also used for decorative and religious purposes.

Given below few of the exclusive Traditional Crafts of India

Basket Weaving and Mat Making

Man has knowBamboo Made Productn basket weaving and mat making crafts since the dawn of history. It is thus one of the oldest craft forms. The tribals do most of the basketry and mat making work in India. The tribals, to reflect their art and culture have used cane and bamboo since ancient times. The materials used for basket, mat weaving and cane work are simple and found in abundance. Locally available natural material like grass, reeds, leaves etc is used for mat and basket making. Jute, coir and bamboo are also used in basketry and in making mats. States like Bihar, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and the North-Eastern states like Sikkim, Meghalaya are known for their basket weaving and mat making traditions. The production of cane furniture is on the rise these days.

Jute and coir are relatively new materials, which are being used in various making various items. Coir fiber is obtained from coconut husk after a lengthy process. Kerala is the largest producer coir products, which range from mats, mattresses, pillow-covers, carpets, bags, wall hangings etc. Coir items and popular due to their durability. Jute, known as the golden fiber is the cheapest natural fiber. A variety of utilitarian items are created using jute. West Bengal is the largest producer of a variety of jute crafts, which range form: mats, floorings, cushion covers, table covers, bags, garments, stuffed toys etc.

Carpets and FlooringsKashmiri Carpet

Carpets and Floorings are an integral part of Indian homes. Carpets and floorings are made up of a variety of material, ranging from wool, cotton, silk, jute, coir, bamboo and grass. The Mughals introduced the art of carpet weaving in India and set up centers at Ara, Delhi and Lahore to train and produce carpets of Persian style following the designs of Kirman, Isfahan, Herat, etc. The contemporary Indian craft of carpet weaving is the offshoot of the Mughal tradition and follows the Persian style of carpet weaving.

Kashmir is known for its silk carpets while Bhadohi- Mirzapur belt in Uttar Pradesh is the leading hand knotted woolen carpet-producing center in the country. Tufted woolen carpets are gaining popularity these days. Gabbe woolen carpets, chain stitch rugs and carpets, and namdas are also made in India.

Woolen durries and mats are other floorings used in India. Durries not only lend colour to the décor of the house but they are also cheap. Mats are made out of a variety of readily available material like, bamboo, grass, jute, coir etc. India has a varied mat making tradition. Bihar, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, Kerala , West Bengal and Norh-Eastern states all have distinct mat weaving traditions of their own.