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In today's world, where attention spans seem to last mere seconds, it's truly a marvel that some of us still possess the patience and insight to understand and appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship of artisans. These individuals dedicate themselves to their craft, investing countless hours to refine their skills and techniques. Whether it's shaping wood, molding clay, or painting canvas, artisans infuse each piece with a unique blend of creativity and expertise. 
.In a society driven by instant gratification, taking the time to recognize the artistry and dedication behind these creations is a testament to our appreciation for the finer things in life. By valuing their work, we not only celebrate the beauty of the finished product but also honor the artisan's journey and commitment to their craft.

STORIES OF HERITAGE CRAFTS & THEIR KEEPERS

Dhurries are flat reversible rugs similar to kilims, woven with cotton or wool yarn in many regions across India. At Inaãra, our dhurries are meticulously woven by talented rural weavers in Central India using yarn prepared and dyed by the weavers themselves.  

The art of weaving dhurries using the "punja" has been refined over centuries. Punja is a metallic claw-like tool used to beat and set the threads in the warp. While India has a longstanding tradition of carpet weaving, dhurries originally were the domain of the humbler folks and a familiar sight in most Indian households.

The last century has seen this humble rug rise in ranks and become much sought after by connoisseurs worldwide. With their trademark geometric designs and bohemian aesthetic, they effortlessly fit into a host of modern decorating styles from chic farmhouse to eclectic boho.

PUNJA DHURRIE WEAVING

KUTCHI WEAVING

The Kutch region is an arid, harsh region spanning 40,000 kilometers but the people and culture of Kutch are a stark contrast to the elements of the nature. Home to many migrant communities that have now eventually settled, Kutch is teeming with an astounding variety of crafts including the Bhujodi textile weaving (now practiced only by a small group of 200 vankars). Hugely impacted by the Bhuj earthquake is 2001, the community has worked hard to innovate within their craft forms and reach a wider audience.  

Vankars from Bhujodi and surrounding villages are engaged in weaving colourful shawls and blankets that include native techniques and motifs from their everyday life. Historically the yarn used was that from the local sheep, but as the vankars reach a variety of customers now, different varieties of wool, cotton, & silk have been incorporated, along with acrylic yarn.

At Inaãra we work directly with fifth or sixth generation weavers from the region of Kutch, specifically in an around the 500 year old village of Bhujodi in Western India.

Chhattisgarh Bastar region is a plateau with high-grade Iron ore (Hematite) deposits. For centuries tribes of this area have been climbing the iron rich mountains and gathering the iron by toppling the stones to the ground. They gather wood coal from the forests which is then use as fuel to melt the stones and extract the iron. This is a method used for centuries by the tribes to make axes, tools, and other utilitarian items. The handicrafts created by the blacksmiths is known as Pitwa art. 

The lack of exposure and a changing cultural landscape has put this art in a danger of disappearing. Many artisans are abandoning their profession for other reliable jobs. Our local partners have worked for over a decade to revive this tradition by updating the artisans on modern designs and market requirements, and generating sustained incomes for them. Our artisan partners come from the Lohar Vishwakarma tribe of central India. 

PITWA ART

Each craft of India is highly tied to the endemic natural resources and historical influences. One such craft is that of wool weaving from Kullu & Kinauri in the northern region of Himachal Pradesh bordering, Kashmir, Tibet, and Nepal. The weaving of textiles and shawls in these regions has been ongoing for thousands of years, but what we see in its modern form is the result of these regions having been on the "wool road" connecting south west Asia all the way to the North. The current patterns and techniques have been significantly influenced by central Asia.

Shawls that we bring to you are made with wool sourced from the regions of Leh and Ladakh, and painstakingly spun by hand. The primary wool used is Yak, Pashmina, and Angora. 

We work very closely with a weaving house in the region working on the advancement of this heritage craft using organic materials and traditional techniques. They are also very committed to the empowerment of women in their region and have employed around 200 women artisans giving them free training and weaving equipment. These women are breadwinners for their families and will pass on their skills to their children.

HIMALAYAN WEAVING 

Wood carving has a rich history dating back to the Mauryan and Gupta periods (circa 500 BCE – 500 CE). Each region has developed its own distinctive style and craftsmanship, influenced by rulers, religions, and cultural diversity. 

At Inaara, we proudly support a small community of artists in central Uttar Pradesh who craft some of our most beloved decor pieces. Founded by the award-winning artist Afzal Khan, known for carving wooden blocks for printing, this community has been passed down through generations of his family. Their intricate and masterful work often prompts inquiries about whether it's machine-made, testament to their exceptional skill and dedication.

Wood Carving