An essential part of human evolution has been the development of handicrafts. The history of handicrafts started from the development of the tools, made by early humans who had to depend on the resources from their surroundings. They started moulding them into products some 2.6 million years ago.
Handicrafts provided an artistic foundation to ancient India by contributing to the development of handmade crafts throughout the millennia. The phrase "art and craft" is most usually referred to as ‘handicraft’ and it drove the lifestyle of the people of ancient civilisations. The goal of art and craft work, when done using natural elements and conventional methods, is not just to make people happy but also to provide them with useful and creative objects.
History of Handicrafts: A Timeline
The Indian handicraft sector contributes significantly to the timelines of economic growth of the rural populace and generates significant foreign exchange. In India, Moradabad, Jaipur, Saharanpur, Jodhpur, and Narsapur are the principal handicraft centres.
Approximately, 1 million people were employed by the handicraft sector overall. India's handicraft exporters have an advantage over rivals like China, the Philippines, and others who often manufacture machine-made goods, as Indian handmade goods are more well-liked worldwide thanks to their unique designs and skilled craftsmanship.
Indus valley civilization
Around 3000 to 1700 B.C., In Mohan Jo Daro, the earliest mentions of handicrafts were discovered. The Pottery-making industry, Metal and Terracotta Industry, Jewellery Industry, Weaving Industry, etc. all exhibited a high level of technological competence during the Indus Valley Civilization. The artisans produced surplus things in addition to all the items that the community needed.
Post-Maurya Era
The Buddhist sculptures from Taxila, Begram, Bamiyan, Swat Valley, and other locations exhibit invasions from the first century B.C. to the first century A.D., which strongly reflect Greek Influence. The principal handicrafts that inherited foreign influences and assimilated them into the Indian context were Jewellery-making, Sculpture, Textile Production, Leather Goods, Metal-working, etc.
Gupta Era
In Indian history, the Gupta Period is referred to as the classical era. The Ajanta paintings and Ellora's rock-cut temples are notable examples of craftsmanship. These murals present a truthful picture of the way of living at that time. Under royal sponsorship, the artisans of this time were masters of Weaving, Carving Stone, Carving Wood, and making Jewellery & Ornaments for the Soldiers.
Medieval India
In terms of handicrafts, the mediaeval era in Indian history saw a noticeable migration from northern India to the Deccan and southern regions of the nation. The artisans prospered in the fields of Pottery, Weaving, Wood Carving, Metal-working, Jewellery, etc. during the reign of the Delhi Kingdom.
The form of the Khajuraho Temples, erected by the Chandelas, exhibits a superb example of central Indian stone sculpture. The ancient Jagannath temple in Puri, Orissa, features elaborate Wood and Stone carvings.
Current Position of Handicrafts in India
After some initial hardship, Indian handmade products are reclaiming their proper position in the global market. Custom Jewellery, Hand-printed Textiles and Scarves, Embroidered and Crocheted Clothings, Bags and Purses, Zari Materials, Footwear, Shawls, Belts, Chappals, and many more things, among other items, have become more popular in Western Nations.
Relation of Handicrafts & Indian Sarees
Surprisingly, every state of India has a varied style and ethnicity of Textile Handicrafts. The precise work of Saree Artisans throughout India has yielded rich, exquisite, and innovative masterpieces of sarees that are adorned with irresistible hues and motifs from the lap of nature.
Each handwoven saree differs noticeably from the others. They may differ in terms of textiles, weaving methods, Motifs, colours, Embroideries, and Fabrics, Threads used, and even how the women of India style & drape the saree. Seasons also tend to affect the styling & fabric of Sarees.
Traditional Handlooms are the best representation of the variety of woven styles. Every different Handloom contributes a different style. Indian women have always loved Indian Handicraft Sarees and have continuously desired to keep adding them to their Saree collections.
Conclusion:
The history of handicrafts in India is a glorious one and we, at Dhhaagey, respect it immensely. You will find Dhhaagey Sarees as desirable as the Indian handicrafts because our sarees are inspired by the very same.
We have combined two of India’s greatest sarees and are now ready to dazzle you with the glamorous results. Experience the great fusion of Maharsahtra’s Paithani Sarees & Tamil Nadu’s Kanjivaram Sarees.
We have taken immense care in designing every saree in our collection so that you can experience the best of both worlds. We aim to promote the traditional handicrafts of ancient India through our intricately designed sarees and we will continue to do so.
Feel free to scroll through the rest of Dhhaagey Sarees website and order a masterpiece for your wardrobe for the upcoming wedding season.