Traditional Crafts in Hyderabad: Supporting Local Artisans and Heritage
Reviving traditional crafts in Hyderabad is a noble endeavor that not only supports local artisans but also preserves the rich heritage of the region but unhappily, in recent times, traditional crafts in Hyderabad have faced challenges due to various factors. The rapid modernization and globalization have led to a decline in demand for handmade crafts, as cheaper, mass-produced alternatives flood the market. Additionally, the younger generation's dwindling interest in traditional crafts, coupled with the lack of institutional support and inadequate marketing channels, has further exacerbated the situation.
Ihsan Ali Noonari
5/16/20244 min read
Author: Ihsan Ali Noonari
Bidriware:
One of the most famous crafts originating from Hyderabad is Bidriware. It's an difficult metalwork art form that involves inlaying silver or gold onto a blackened alloy of zinc and copper. The designs typically include floral motifs, geometric patterns, and calligraphy. The craft has its roots in Persia and was brought to Hyderabad by Persian artisans during the Bahmani Sultanate period in the 14th century.
Pearl Jewelry:
Hyderabad has long been celebrated as the "City of Pearls." The craft of pearl jewelry making has been practiced here for centuries. Pearls, often sourced from the nearby Gulf of manner, are expertly crafted into stunning necklaces, earrings, bangles, and other accessories. The city's association with pearls dates back to the time of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, when Hyderabad emerged as a major center for pearl trading and craftsmanship.
Kalamkari:
Kalamkari, which translates to "pen art," is a traditional hand-painted or block-printed textile craft. Hyderabad has been a significant hub for Kalamkari production, with artisans creating intricate designs depicting mythological themes, floral motifs, and scenes from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The craft has flourished in the region for centuries, with influences from Persian and Mughal artistic traditions.
Zardozi:
Zardozi is an elaborate form of embroidery that involves stitching metallic threads, beads, and sequins onto fabrics to create ornate designs. Hyderabad has a rich tradition of Zardozi craftsmanship, with artisans skillfully embellishing fabrics for garments, home decor, and ceremonial textiles. The craft has its origins in Persia and was introduced to Hyderabad during the Mughal era.
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Wood Carving:
Hyderabad boasts a heritage of beautiful wood carving, with artisans crafting intricately carved furniture, doors, and decorative items. The craft reflects influences from Persian, Mughal, and Deccani artistic styles. Artisans often use rosewood, teak, and sandalwood to create finely detailed designs featuring floral patterns, geometric motifs, and architectural elements.
Rilli:
Hyderabad Sindh Rilli, which specifically denotes the style of Rilli quilts made in the Hyderabad district of Sindh, Pakistan. These quilts are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and skilled craftsmanship. Hyderabad Sindh Rilli quilts often feature geometric patterns, floral motifs, and other traditional designs, reflecting the cultural heritage of the region and served as beautiful pieces of art also.
Khaadi:
Hyderabad, Sindh, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which includes various traditional crafts and textiles. Khaadi is a handspun and hand-woven fabric that holds deep roots in the Indian subcontinent, including present-day Pakistan. In Hyderabad, Sindh, Khaadi crafted into various garments such as shirts, kurtas, sarees etc.
Ajrak:
Hyderabad, Sindh is renowned for its vibrant culture and rich traditions, including its distinct attire of ajrak and topi. Ajrak is a handcrafted fabric, traditionally adorned with intricate geometric patterns in rich hues like indigo, crimson, and black. It holds deep cultural significance in Sindh and is worn with pride by both men and women on various occasions, including weddings, festivals, and cultural events particularly those in Hyderabad.
Bangles:
Bangles have a rich cultural significance in India, and Hyderabad has its own unique tradition in bangle-making. Hyderabad is renowned for its exquisite bangles, particularly those made of glass and adorned with intricate designs, pearls, and precious stones. These bangles are an integral part of the city's culture and are often worn on special occasions such as weddings and festivals.
The history of bangle-making in Hyderabad dates back centuries, with artisans passing down their skills from generation to generation. The city's bangle industry flourished under the patronage of the Nizams of Hyderabad, who were known for their love of exquisite jewelry and lavish lifestyles. During their rule, Hyderabad became a center for jewelry-making, including bangles crafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Over time, Hyderabad's bangles have gained international fame, attracting tourists and buyers from around the world.
