Rajasthan travel is as much about seeing the scenic splendour of the place, as marvelling at the skilled artisans who create the incredible arts and crafts of Rajasthan. This region boasts of a mind-boggling array of handcrafted items which cannot perhaps be seen anywhere in India. From the miniature paintings to the lac bangles encrusted with glittering mirror pieces, the arts and crafts of Rajasthan are a treasure trove of imagination and innovation. The patronage of the royals gave the initial impetus and then subsequent events only went to hone the innate talents of these craftsmen, adding to the variety and creativity.

Paintings:

The paintings of Rajasthan are unique and distinct from other schools. The miniatures date back to the 11th century, painted on handmade paper with vegetable dyes. The phads are scroll paintings, which extol the exploits of Pabuji and Dev Narain the folk heroes of the region. Pichwais are another type of visual art, which is painted, embroidered or printed with blocks on raw paper.

Pottery:

This is a Persian invention and was brought into Rajasthan by Maharaja Ram Singh. Made of multani mitti (clay), this craft of Rajasthan makes use of sodium sulphate and raw glaze. Found mainly in the Pink City of Jaipur, it comes in the distinct colours of blue, green and white.

Jewellery:

Another charming addition to the arts and crafts of Rajasthan is the jewellery. From the chunky tribal trinkets to the ornate, gem-encrusted premium pieces, the range is astounding. Enamelled jewellery is distinct to Jaipur and travel in Rajasthan is incomplete without strolling in the handicrafts bazaars, with their colour and vivid beauty. Bangles, armlets, hair ornaments, toe rings, no part of the body is left unadorned.

Textiles:

No talk of Rajasthan handicrafts is complete without mentioning the textiles, which are renowned all over the world. There are the handmade quilts and the colourful bed linen of Bagru and Jaipur. Then of course, the skirts and backless blouses, embroidered and mirror-encrusted, the beautiful jooties (sandals) which are to be found in every lane and by lane of Rajasthan.

Then there are the ivory, sandalwood and marble handicrafts, the hand-carved furniture, the dolls and puppets that delight a child’s heart, the leatherware, the outstanding Thewa art and a myriad other forms and shapes, that make up this kaleidoscope of Rajasthan handicrafts.