Imagine Rajasthan and you envisage a rich fusion of colors in its jewels and kotadoria sarees, its scrumptious cuisine that catered to the delicate tastes of the maharajas of the past. Imagine the bustling market places across dusty towns, selling their tribal wares under the unabated warmth of desert sunshine, and of course, the poignant history of its long lost kings and nobles permeating the very fabric of its existence.
Once you visit this magnificent state, there are more than just memories that you will take back; to commemorate the grandeur and noble elegance that personifies this place. With more than 10 percent of the population who belong to tribal communities, of the Meenas and Bhils, you can indulge yourself in various kinds of handicraft items that you can buy as gifts for your beloved.
The myriad range of handicraft items, like hand crafted silver jewelry, with precious and semi-precious stones, kotadoria weaves in dazzling colors and stone embellishments, Jaipur rugs that mark the long history of weaving tradition in Rajasthan, Persian ceramic art forms like blue pottery and Jaipuri bandhej offer brilliant gift options for women. Pick up a dreamy weave in Jaipuri bandhej for your wife, made pretty by traditional motifs or trendy patterns and watch as her eyes light up! How about exploring more about Rajasthani handicraft items to make a perfect gift choice for her.
Kota doria sarees
Kota doria literally translates to threadwork from Kota, in Rajasthan. This is a type of silk-cotton weave that has become very popular among women owing to the light and airy fabric, and unconventional motifs that are patterned from the irregularity in texture created by a subtle combination of silk and cotton, forming geometric patterns, or khats. Kota sarees are found in various avatars that can be worn on different occasions from special events to everyday life.
Rajasthani carpets or rugs
One of the main attractions across local tourist markets in Rajasthan is the traditional rugs that are sold in a variety of dazzling colors and tantalizing motifs. These rugs are generally hand woven on looms by skilled craftsmen and are made from cotton. In some districts, they are also made from camel wool and are used specifically during winters.
Sanganeri handmade paper
Handmade paper made in Sanganer village, in Jaipur, is in a class of its own which has retained the vibrant tradition of using bright colors and block printing motifs on white backgrounds. This paper can be used for various decorative purposes, on walls and as gift bags. They will undoubtedly add a touch of the rich exuberance of colors that the state exhibits.
Traditional Jewelry
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, the saying goes, but the rich array of gemstone, silver and handcrafted jewelry traditions that are inherent to Rajasthan will win the heart of any girl. Lapiz lazuli, garnet, amethyst, Carnelian and emerald studded silver jewelry of sterling quality are exported from Rajasthan all over the world. Traditional minakari, kundan and lac-work jewelry, thewa gold embellishments on glasswork, old silver bajubandhs, necklaces, anklets and Adah neck pieces for Rajput women are still found in markets across the state.
There are various other pieces of handicrafts in Rajasthan that can attract the art lovers. Some examples are the bandhej sarees and suits that have become the trend of the times. Persian blue pottery pieces that are crafted from the highest quality ground quartz provide a surreal, opalescent translucence that is much sought after. And finally, various forms of leatherwear, like mojris and jooties that form the perfect gift for a pretty pair of feet.
Indian handmade products have taken the international market by storm. They are in great demand for their versatility and divine beauty. Online stores like rajrang.com have an array of handmade products crafted using the centuries old techniques.
