India’s rich tapestry of arts and crafts has been a defining feature of its culture for centuries. From intricate textiles to unique forms of painting, each craft carries with it the legacy of generations. However, many of these lesser-known crafts are at risk of disappearing in the face of modernization, mass production, and dwindling demand. The cultural heritage tied to these crafts is in jeopardy unless concerted efforts are made to preserve and revive them.
Fortunately, across the country, local artisans, communities, and organizations are taking steps to breathe new life into these crafts, blending traditional techniques with contemporary practices to make them relevant in today’s world. In this blog post, we’ll explore 12 lesser-known Indian crafts that are at risk of disappearing, and highlight the initiatives being undertaken to ensure their survival.
1. Toda Embroidery (Tamil Nadu)
The Craft
Toda embroidery, practiced by the Toda tribe of the Nilgiri hills in Tamil Nadu, is a delicate art of hand embroidery characterized by red and black threads on white cotton. The intricate patterns represent nature, animals, and geometric designs, traditionally seen on shawls and other garments.
Revival Efforts
With younger generations moving away from the craft, efforts to revive Toda embroidery have gained traction. NGOs and fashion designers have collaborated with Toda women to introduce the embroidery in contemporary fashion, creating a market for shawls, sarees, and accessories. These initiatives are helping to bring Toda embroidery into the mainstream and provide sustainable livelihoods for artisans.
2. Rogan Painting (Gujarat)
The Craft
Rogan painting is a rare and intricate art form from Kutch, Gujarat, where artisans use a paste made from castor oil and natural pigments to create vibrant designs on fabric. The technique is passed down through generations, but today only a handful of artisans practice this craft.
Revival Efforts
Rogan painting came to global attention when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a Rogan painting to former U.S. President Barack Obama. This spotlight prompted renewed interest in the craft. Government programs and online platforms are now working with the last few Rogan painting families to preserve the tradition, while making the art more accessible to a global audience through exhibitions and e-commerce.
3. Thewa Art (Rajasthan)
The Craft
Thewa art, practiced by a small community in Rajasthan, involves embossing thin sheets of gold onto colored glass. Traditionally used for jewelry and ornaments, this art is cherished for its detailed patterns and rich history, but is fading due to the lack of artisans who can perform the delicate work.
Revival Efforts
Artisans and cultural enthusiasts have been working to keep Thewa art alive by showcasing it at craft fairs, collaborating with designers, and teaching the craft to younger generations. Luxury brands and online marketplaces are also helping to reintroduce Thewa jewelry to modern buyers, focusing on its uniqueness and historical value.
4. Sikki Grass Craft (Bihar)
The Craft
Sikki grass craft involves weaving golden-colored grass into beautiful figurines, baskets, and even jewelry. Practiced by women in Bihar, the craft was once a part of everyday life but has seen a sharp decline due to industrial products replacing traditional handmade items.
Revival Efforts
Women’s cooperatives and NGOs are working tirelessly to revive Sikki grass craft by integrating it into modern home decor trends. Workshops and skill development programs are providing training to young artisans, while e-commerce platforms have opened up new markets for these products, allowing Sikki grass items to be sold both locally and internationally.
5. Leheria Dyeing (Rajasthan)
The Craft
Leheria, a traditional tie-dye technique from Rajasthan, creates distinctive wavy patterns on fabrics like cotton and silk. While once a popular method of textile decoration, cheaper and faster modern techniques have led to the decline of this intricate art.
Revival Efforts
Fashion designers and craft organizations are collaborating with Leheria artisans to incorporate this traditional dyeing method into contemporary fashion. By blending modern silhouettes with traditional Leheria designs, these efforts are helping to revive the craft while introducing it to a new, fashion-conscious audience.
6. Pipli Appliqué (Odisha)
The Craft
Pipli appliqué work, originating in Odisha, involves stitching intricate fabric cutouts onto base fabrics, creating beautiful designs used in temple decorations and ceremonial items. While traditionally part of the Jagannath Yatra, this craft has struggled to find a foothold in the modern world.
Revival Efforts
To revive Pipli appliqué, local artisans are being supported through training programs and workshops. They are now producing a range of products, including handbags, home decor, and wall hangings, which cater to urban markets. Government handicraft fairs have also provided a platform to showcase these works, sparking renewed interest among tourists and locals alike.
7. Khayyam Work (West Bengal)
The Craft
Khayyam scroll painting is a traditional Bengali art that tells stories through vivid imagery on long scrolls of paper. The painstaking work required to create these paintings, coupled with a decline in demand for hand-painted art, has led to the near-extinction of the craft.
Revival Efforts
Art collectives and cultural institutions have stepped in to protect Khayyam art by organizing exhibitions, collaborating with artists to produce affordable reproductions, and promoting the craft as a form of storytelling in modern media. Art schools are also incorporating Khayyam techniques into their curriculum, ensuring the knowledge is passed on.
8. Nimari Mat Weaving (Madhya Pradesh)
The Craft
Nimari mats are handwoven from river grass and are known for their intricate geometric patterns and durability. However, as synthetic materials have become more affordable, the demand for these eco-friendly mats has sharply decreased.
Revival Efforts
Eco-conscious movements are playing a crucial role in reviving Nimari mat weaving. Organizations promoting sustainable living are advocating for the use of handmade, biodegradable products, creating a niche market for Nimari mats. Local cooperatives are also engaging in export initiatives, introducing these mats to a global audience.
9. Pattamadai Mat Weaving (Tamil Nadu)
The Craft
Pattamadai mats, made from a special type of grass found in Tamil Nadu, are known for their fine texture and durability. Traditionally woven for special occasions, these mats are labor-intensive to produce and have seen a decline in artisans continuing the craft.
Revival Efforts
Government agencies and NGOs have started providing grants and training to Pattamadai weavers, helping them refine their techniques and reach a broader market. These mats are now being promoted as luxury home decor items, with an emphasis on their sustainable and eco-friendly qualities.
10. Cheriyal Scroll Painting (Telangana)
The Craft
Cheriyal scroll paintings are a dying art form of Telangana, which depict stories from Indian epics and folklore in a colorful, narrative style. With fewer artisans practicing this art and a lack of awareness about its cultural significance, the craft is under threat.
Revival Efforts
Craft revivalists and cultural organizations are working to preserve Cheriyal painting by integrating it into school curriculums, organizing workshops for younger generations, and collaborating with urban designers to bring the craft into contemporary art forms. The craft is also being marketed to international buyers as an example of India’s rich narrative art tradition.
11. Thatheras (Punjab)
The Craft
The thatheras of Punjab are brass and copper craftsmen who create traditional utensils by hand. Despite being recognized by UNESCO, this ancient craft is nearing extinction due to the rise of mass-produced alternatives.
Revival Efforts
The Indian government has initiated programs to revive the thatheras’ craft by promoting it as part of India’s cultural heritage. Training programs are being organized to teach younger generations, while collaborations with luxury brands are helping to create a market for handmade metalware in the hospitality industry.
12. Kagzi Pottery (Rajasthan)
The Craft
Kagzi pottery is a rare craft in Rajasthan, known for its paper-thin, delicate pottery. As this fragile art struggles to compete with modern ceramics and cheaper industrial alternatives, it is slowly disappearing.
Revival Efforts
Artisans are now partnering with designers and galleries to revive Kagzi pottery as high-end home decor. Efforts are also underway to market the craft as eco-friendly and sustainable, with workshops promoting the skill to younger artists in Rajasthan.
Conclusion: A Hope for the Future
The revival of these lesser-known Indian crafts offers a beacon of hope for artisans struggling to keep their traditions alive. With initiatives ranging from government support to designer collaborations and digital platforms, there is an increasing awareness of the value these crafts bring to India’s cultural heritage. As consumers, we too can play a role by supporting artisans, choosing handmade over mass-produced goods, and celebrating the unique stories embedded in each craft. By doing so, we not only preserve a rich cultural legacy but also ensure that these crafts remain a part of India’s vibrant future.