Reflecting the true culture of the state, Rajasthan handicrafts are known for their unique designs. The art seems to be influenced by the Rajputs and the Mughals. Apart from historical monuments, exotic wildlife, and vibrant culture and traditions, Rajasthan specializes in handicrafts. These unique items make Rajasthan a shopping paradise. One can spend hours perusing the handmade items on display in bazaars and government emporiums like the Rajasthali in Jaipur. The main specialties in Rajasthani handicrafts are:
Gemstone and jewelry cutting
Jodhpur, Jaipur and Udaipur are some of the best places to shop for ethnic Rajasthani jewelry. Rajasthan is world famous for jewelry items like rakhri, gokhru, timamyan, bala, bajuband etc. Jaipur is the world’s largest gem cutting center and a major center for Minakari (a colored glass process). Thewa pendants from Rajasthan are made in Jaipur by inlaying gold and semi-precious stones (rubies, emeralds and diamonds) in a fluted template. Bikaner and Jodhpur are quite popular for Kundan, the art of setting stones in gold.
textiles
Rajasthani Textiles, in the dyed and printed fabric embellished with embroidery and mirrors, showcasing the matchless artistry of the Rajputs and Mughals. The Jauhri Bazaar in Jaipur is a famous place to get a wide variety of handmade textiles. Bandhani or Bandhej is a unique tying and dyeing technique from Rajasthan that provides a different texture and design to textiles.
paintings
This fascinating state art is especially popular in Marwar, Mewar, Hadoti, Kishangarh, Dhundhar and Alwar. The miniature and folk styles, and the Kota-style paintings represent a unique mix of vibrant colors, composition, and themes. These paints are made using natural colors such as plant and mineral alkaloids.
Durries and rugs
Durries was born with the Afghans in the 17th century. Today, this segment is among the most popular handicrafts in Rajasthan. These rugs are generally hand-knotted woolen products and bear a strong resemblance to Persian rugs.
Crafts in Stone and Marble
Marble sculptures, statues, stone artifacts, religious idols and stone carvings, etc. they are something that Rajasthan is known for. These display pieces can make great decorative items for your home. Unique stone carvings can be seen in various palaces and havelis, as well as in ordinary houses.
Rajasthan Jootis
These jootis are an important part of Indian ethnic dresses. Originating from Jaipur and Jodhpur, Rajasthan Mojaris Jootis with exquisite embroidery form another specialty of Rajasthani handicrafts.
Rajasthani wooden furniture
The most famous work on furniture in Rajasthan is lattice work. This is one of the best works of art found in Rajasthan, popular for its intricate carvings on small chairs and tables, bajots and chowkis, stools with rope seats, boxes, cupboards, mirror and picture frames, doors and windows, etc. Jodhpur and Kishangarh are the renowned cities to buy these wooden handicrafts.
While exploring the craft specialties in Rajasthan, one cannot ignore the unique and extraordinary red terracotta pottery, Bikaner pottery, blue pottery handicrafts, ivory bangles and feather-light soft quilts (razai). These dynamic craft traditions reflect the true culture and royal splendor of Rajasthan.
