Kutch Handicrafts: Kutch of Gujarat is also famous for its rich handicraft tradition along with the White Rann and colorful folk life. Here, for generations, artisans have been making useful items like embroidery on clothes, printing with natural colours, lacquer painting and clay. Buying these five traditional handicrafts while returning from a trip to Kutch is a beautiful opportunity to connect with the local culture and artisans.
Kutchi embroidery: art of colors and mirrors
A beautiful combination of colored threads, small mirrors and geometric shapes is visible in Kutchi embroidery. Different patterns and stitching styles are found in the embroideries of communities like Rabari, Ahir and Mutwa. Fabrics made for jackets, bundles, cushion covers, torans and wall decorations are popular choices. While purchasing, check the stitching detail, quality of the fabric and strength of the mirrors. Small variations are natural in hand embroidery.
Ajrakh Printing: The Charm of Natural Colors
Ajrakh is a traditional block printing art associated with Kutch and Sindh. In this, geometric patterns are engraved on the cloth with wooden stamps. Blue, red, black and white colors are its special identity. In the traditional process the fabric is washed, dyed and printed in several stages. Ajrakhpur village is famous for this art. Dupatta, stole, saree or kurta cloth can be purchased from here. Be sure to ask the artisan about the colors and quality of printing.
Rogan Art: Unique painting on cloth
The lacquer art of Nirona village of Kutch is known for its rare technique. In this, a thick colored substance prepared from castor oil is molded into decorative shapes on the cloth with a thin metal rod. Trees, flowers and the tree of life are popular examples. Small pictures, decorative fabrics and wall panels are good choices. This is a painstaking art, so the price varies according to size and detail.
Lacquer work and wooden objects
In some villages of Kutch, artisans are practicing the traditional art of applying colored lacquer on wooden objects. Small boxes, toys, spice containers and decorative items make useful gifts. While purchasing, check the strength of the wood, smoothness of the surface and color layer. Get fragile items safely packed, so that they do not get damaged during travel.
clay art of khawra
Utensils and decorative objects hold a special place in the clay craftsmanship of Khavda region. Local potters make jugs, lamps, bowls and decorative figures from clay. Hand painting is also done on some items. Before buying a water container, ask whether it is usable or just for decoration. Get clay items packed in cloth and a sturdy box.
Important tips for shopping in Kutch
Apart from Bhuj, visit handicraft centers like Bhujodi, Ajrakhpur and Nirona. Where possible, buy direct from artisans and understand the process of making the item. Compare price, but respect the labor of handmade work. Every item purchased from Kutch is not just a souvenir, but a story related to local art, tradition and livelihood.
FAQ
What are the most famous markets for shopping while visiting Kutch?
Bhuj’s Shroff Bazaar, Bhujodi Craft Village, Ajrakhpur and Nirona village are the best places to shop for authentic handicrafts.
What is the difference between Ajrakh print and normal screen print?
Ajrakh uses only natural dyes and wooden blocks, making the print look almost identical on both sides of the fabric, whereas screen printing is done with chemical dyes on only one surface.
Where is Rogan Art made in India?
Rogan art is made throughout India, especially by the Khatri community in Nirona village of Kutch district of Gujarat.
Are real mirrors used in Kutchi embroidery?
Yes, in authentic and traditional Kutchi embroidery, real glass panes (Abhla) are hand-stitched with cotton or silk threads.
What are the best things from Kutch for home decor?
Rogan art wall frames, Kachhi embroidered toran/cushion covers, Khavda terracotta jugs and lacquered carved wooden showpieces are best suited for home decor.
Read Also: Place a curtain of plants on the window, the house will get a beautiful natural look.