Arts and Culture in India
The history of Indian handicrafts can be dated back to the Indus
Valley where the first traces of Indian handicraft can be found. Indian
arts and crafts have evolved through religious traditions, local needs
and foreign trade and commerce. Today, India is a treasure trove of
various arts and crafts.
The artisans of the country, through their
incredible talent create extraordinary objects which are of great value
in India and abroad. The various forms of art and crafts in India
include painting, sculpture, pottery, metal work, textile, ivory work,
glass products, leather works, paper mache, stone work, toys, wood
work, cane work and terracotta.
The pre-modern Indian art is greatly inspired by religious themes
and nature. A glimpse of Indian culture and tradition can be seen on
the Buddhist murals of Ajanta, paintings in Rajput palaces, Hindu and
Jain temples and many other ancient places. The miniature and folk
paintings illustrate scenes from two great epics – the Ramayana and the
Mahabharata. Art and crafts items patronized by the Mughal royalty
display excellent craftsmanship.
Indian artisans are very much ingenious in making earthen pots and
jewelry. Pottery work exists in almost all parts of the country. Making
gems and jewelry is another art that Indian artisans have mastered.
Today, India has flourished as a major manufacturer of precious and
semi-precious gems, stones and jewelry. Indian handicrafts present some
of the world’s widest and finest range of products.