Saluting the rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, Craffi, the Karigar presents fascinating and informative facts on Indian Handicrafts. Read on to discover how the ancient art of handicrafts has saved tress, provides employment and more!!
1. In 2012, Madhubani artists painted tree trunks with masterpieces and prevented them from being cut
In 2012, Madhubani paintings protected more than 100 trees from being cut. The reason being these trees were decorated with Madhubani painting. Forms of gods and spiritual symbols such as Radha-Krishna, Rama-Sita etc. were painted on these trees resulting in none of them being chopped off. The artists also transformed highway number 52, Madhubani district into a tourist attraction.
2. Rogan Painting is done by only one family in India
The legacy of unique and mesmerizing handicraft of Rogan Painting is practised by only one family in India. This lone Muslim family in India, the Khatris has ensured their craft is breathing and blossoming for over three centuries. Gafoorbhai Khatri, head of the Khatri family, has taught this craft to each and every member of the family. Surprisingly, most members of his family have won a national award.
3. Indian textile & handicrafts industry is the largest employment generator after agriculture
Recently, the minister of state for textiles Ajay Tamta threw light on de facto that Indian textile & handicrafts industry is largest employment generators after agriculture. Around 7 million people including a large percentage of women. At ASSOCHAM event, the minister of state for textiles Ajay Tamta, spoke about economic importance of textile & handicrafts sector in terms of low capital investment, high ratio of value addition, and high potential for export and foreign exchange earnings.
4. World’s most expensive Kancheepuram Silk Saree “Vivah Pattu” was sold for $100,021; £50,679
As per Guinness Book World Records, the world’s most expensive saree was sold for Rs 39,31,627 ($100,021; £50,679), on 5th January 2008 made by Chennai Silks, India. This piece of treasure is adorned with 11 paintings by the celebrated Indian artist Raja Ravi Varma. 4760 man hours went into making this saree. Embroidered in metals such as gold, platinum and silver, this silk saree is punctuated with Navratna stones such as diamond, emerald, ruby, yellow sapphire, sapphire, topaz, pearl, cat’s eye and coral.