It’s true. India is the land of myriad forms of folk and tribal art that are an embodiment of the diverse cultures within the country. Each tells us a unique story, and has their own distinctive way of reflecting our rich ethnic heritage. Some of these art forms are known worldwide like Tanjore and Madhubani. At the same time, there are also some breathtaking art forms that even we Indians might not be aware of.
That’s why we have made a list of five unique art forms that you will definitely fall in love with. Check them out.
1. Channel your inner royal self with Aranmula Kannadi mirrors from Kerala
Who said ornate mirrors were a thing only of the past? Aranmula Kannadi are handmade metal-alloy mirrors, which are made in the heritage village of Kerala’s Aranmula. This traditional craft of mirror making has lasted over 400 years! And this isn’t any ordinary mirror. The unique bit about it is that it’s not even made of glass, but the alloy is mixed with copper and tin before being polished and kept for several days which makes the surface reflective. In fact, unlike other mirrors, an Aranmula Kannadi reflects light from the outer surface which eliminates any aberrations and gives us a perfect image. The Aranmula Kannadi mirrors are believed to have originated when the craftsmen who worked on the famous Parthasarathi temple gifted a special crown to the king as their parting gift. The crown had these mirrors embedded in it which impressed the king. So some of the workers stayed back and exclusively started making these mirrors.
Today Sree Moolam Shashtyabdapurthi Memorial Institute in Thiruvananthapuram, which is a government handicraft emporium, is giving an opportunity to these talented artisans to showcase their talent and bring these elegant-looking mirrors to the masses. Flipkart is supporting these artisans and their impeccable art forms by promoting these on its platform. Check out products like the Kairali Handicrafts Metal Mirror and the Aaranmula Aalila Model now.
2. Revisit your childhood with Channapatna toys from Karnataka
The Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited is now providing support to sustain traditional craftsmanship in Karnataka by not just training artisans but by also promoting their work. And now you can even find these toys on Flipkart like the multicoloured wooden toy train and an adorable looking wooden tortoise pull along.
3. Let Dhokra art and crafts from West Bengal redefine primitive simplicity for you
Using the lost wax casting technique, which is the earliest method of non-ferrous metal casting known to human civilisation, Dhokra art is a reminder of just how charming an effect of folk motifs with their rustic beauty and imaginative designs can have on us. This art form is much more than just a skillful application of metal casting which is evident from the intricate details of each design. Today Dhokra artefacts range from figurines, deities, elephants, owls, deer and other animals to ornaments like anklets, ankle bells, earrings, necklaces, bangles etc. You can also find other utility items like nutcrackers, kohl holders, vermillion holders, utensils etc. This art form is mostly found in Bankura, Paschim Medinipur and the Purba Bardhaman districts of West Bengal, but will surely capture hearts all across the country.
4. These 100% cotton and wool hand-knotted carpets from Chhattisgarh are all we need for cosy winters
Flipkart is doing its bit to encourage more of such traditional craftsmen to showcase their talent by making these precious artworks available on its platform. You can check out the products like the Shabari Emporium multicolor cotton, Wool Area Rug and the cotton, Wool Prayer Mat.
5. Add an element of mythological extravaganza to your walls with palm leaf etchings from Odisha
The Odisha Crafts Museum known as Kala-Bhoomi has worked towards upholding Odisha’s rich and vibrant tradition of handloom & handicrafts in ways that awaken the curiosity of all of us. The museum now has palm leaf etching products available at their store as well as online. On Flipkart, you can find palm leaf etchings blending traditional design with a functional utility in products like the Kalabhoomi Wood Photo Frame and Jewelry & Make-up Products Vanity Box.
Each of these art forms are special and deserve recognition, which is why Flipkart is making a conscious effort to promote these forms of folk art. So visit the Flipkart Samarth storepage and discover the beauty of India’s vibrant cultures through these traditional artworks.