Villages in Maharashtra Preserving Ancient Customs and Crafts
Maharashtra, a vibrant state in India, is home to numerous craft villages that stand as permanent testaments to its rich artisanal heritage. These villages, scattered across the state, have been the custodians of traditional craftsmanship for centuries, passing down skills from generation to generation.
One such village is Bhiwandi, located near Mumbai, which is Maharashtra's largest powerloom center but retains a significant handloom tradition in its old quarters. The old quarters of Bhiwandi are a testament to the state's rich cultural identity, where the legacy of handloom weaving is still alive and well.
Paithan, located in Aurangabad, is another village known for its Paithani sarees, one of the oldest surviving handloom traditions in India. The weaving technique of Paithani sarees involves the use of fine silk and pure gold or silver zari to create intricate motifs inspired by birds, flowers, and animals. This family-based occupation has been passed down through generations, making each saree a unique piece of art.
Kolhapur, renowned for its Kolhapuri chappals, is another craft village worth mentioning. These handcrafted leather sandals, characterized by fine workmanship and unique design, are now also available in vibrant colors. Traditionally made from premium leather in earthy tones, these chappals are noted for their durability and comfort.
Hupari, a village in Kolhapur district, is known for its silver filigree work. Over 2,000 families in Hupari are engaged in this craft, making it a significant economic activity in the area. Artisans in Hupari craft anklets, toe rings, and other ornamental pieces through a meticulous process involving smelting, drawing, twisting, and shaping silver wires. Despite competition from machine-made products, Hupari's hand-crafted silver items persist and remain in demand due to their dexterous craftsmanship.
Sawantwadi, located in the Sindhudurg district near the Goa border, is known for its lac-turned wooden toys and hand-painted Ganjifa playing cards. These crafts were historically patronized by the Sawantwadi royal family and serve as reminders of the close relationship between legacy, means of subsistence, and cultural identity. Ganjifa card-making survives in a few families in Sawantwadi.
Pinguli, a village near Kudal in Sindhudurg district, is the centre of a rare tradition of shadow puppetry known as Chitrakathi. These vibrant shadow puppets are a traditional form of folk art used in storytelling and performances, showcasing colorful and detailed craftsmanship. Pinguli craftspeople also create painted leather objects like masks and wall hangings.
The Tambat community in Nashik district specializes in making copper and brass utensils using hand-hammering techniques.
Jawhar, a village in Maharashtra, is one of the state's best-kept secrets and is known for its craft villages.
Aundh painting, a folk art form, evolved under the support of the Aundh State royal family and is inspired by religious iconography. The Aundh Museum houses many original pieces of Aundh painting and supports local artists.
Craft communities in Maharashtra maintain traditional talents and persevere in the face of industrialisation and dwindling demand. These villages highlight Maharashtra's rich cultural heritage expressed through textiles, leatherwork, metal crafts, and folk art, reflecting the distinct traditions and skills passed down through generations.
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