Arts & Crafts The history of Indian handicrafts can be dated back to the Indus Valley where the first traces of Indian handicraft can be found. Indian arts and crafts have evolved through religious traditions, local needs and foreign trade and commerce. Today, India is a treasure trove of various arts and crafts. The artisans of the country, through their incredible talent create extraordinary objects which are of great value in India and abroad. The various forms of art and crafts in India include painting, sculpture, pottery, metal work, textile, ivory work, glass products, leather works, papier mache, stone work, toys, wood work, cane work and terracotta.
The pre-modern Indian art is greatly inspired by religious themes and nature. A glimpse of Indian culture and tradition can be seen on the Buddhist murals of Ajanta, paintings in Rajput palaces, Hindu and Jain temples and many other ancient places. The miniature and folk paintings illustrate scenes from two great epics – the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Art and crafts items patronized by the Mughal royalty display excellent craftsmanship.
Indian artisans are very much ingenious in making earthen pots and jewelry. Pottery work exists in almost all parts of the country. Making gems and jewelry is another art that Indian artisans have mastered. Today, India has flourished as a major manufacturer of precious and semi-precious gems, stones and jewelry. Indian handicrafts present some of the world’s widest and finest range of products.
To know more about “Art & Crafts” of a particular state, UT or city of India, click on the links given on the map below.
