Life in the craft lane

India is known for its art and craft. Each state in India has a unique craft. Let’s travel through the length and breadth of this country and take a quick look at what is on offer.

In Channapatna, Karnataka, the wood of the Wrightia tinctoria tree or ivory-wood is made into toys. This tradition dates back to the reign of Tipu Sultan who invited artisans from Persia to train local artisans to make these wooden toys.

The Bhat community of Rajasthan have made popular Kathputli - a string marionette. Kath means wood and Putli means doll.

Chhattisgarh is famous for Dhokra, a non-ferrous metal casting using the lost-wax casting technique. The earliest known lost-wax artefact is the dancing girl of Mohenjo-Daro.

Odisha is known for its stone carving. The Sun Temple of Konark with its intricate sculptures and delicate carvings on the vivid red sandstone are prime examples of this craft.

The sea offers up a veritable treasure and in the Andaman and Nicobar seashells are crafted into objets d’art.

In Punjab, decorating and embroidering footwear has been made into fine art. Juttis are made of leather and embroidered with gold and silver thread.