Handmade and handcrafted objects are a part of daily life in Gujarat. The crafts of Gujarat demonstrate the symbiotic relationship between humans and Nature and offer meaningful lessons in sustainable living for future generations. The ingenious use of natural and locally available materials is combined with a unique aesthetic, bringing together form and function in each magnificent product. With simple tools, adherence to norms set by tradition and with their imagination, the artisans of Gujarat have embodied human potential.
Traditional skills are now applied to create products for the contemporary world, demonstrating convincingly that natural and handmade products are adaptable over time. And, that tradition continues to be relevant in modern times.
Preface
The story of Gujarat is one of amalgamation and continuity of the human potential, demonstrated by the glorious kaarigari, craftsmanship, in the state. The kaarigars (artisans) of the state have for centuries produced exquisite objects for daily and ceremonial uses. They have taken aid of locally available materials and applied ingenious skills and techniques, combining it with right imagination. Every natural resource- clay, wood, stone, metal, cotton yarn, animal hide and various flora-has been adopted and fashioned, in an array of designs. What we have, as a result, is a fascinating balance between Nature and humans, and between form and function.
Most of the craft traditions that remain alive today are traced to the ancient Indus Valley civilization, of which present-day Gujarat was once a part. The rich maritime history of the state also dates back to that period. In mythology, Gujarat is where Lord Krishna came to settle, in Dwarka. Over centuries, many communities and tribes arrived and established a place for themselves here. Coming from all directions, by land and sea, some from as far away as Central Asia and Africa, these communities assimilated with the local population and they have together created a unique milieu. As a part of many empires and kingdoms-from Mauryan to the Greek, Gupta, Maitrak, Chaulukya, Delhi Sultanate, Gujarat Sultanate, Mughal, Maratha and finally the British-Gujarat constantly benefited from new influences, the imprints of which are still found abundantly in the stone architecture of the state.
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