Handicrafts can be defined simply as objects made by the skill of the hand and which carry a part of the creator as well as centuries of evolutionary tradition. It can range from the simple clay- lamps to the diamond -studded jewellery items. Handicrafts consists of objects created by skilled people for religious rituals and for personal use as well as luxurious ones created by specialized craftsmen for specific requirements. Handicrafts bring a great sense of grace to every home be it the poor hut or the opulent star hotel. There is a timeless quality in these craft objects, for they have evolved over centuries and continue to be made even today with the same sentiment.
India is synonymous to exotic arts and handicrafts traditionsTraditional Indian art is governed by a variety of functions, which are interlinked, with complex cross-currants of perceptions and awareness on the parts of the artists and the patrons. This can be meaningfully understood only through a comprehensive study of the social, cultural and religious contexts of Indian arts and handicrafts.West Bengal, Karnataka, Orissa, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and all the other states of India are famous for more than one of their characteristic handicrafts. From pottery, metal craft, woodcraft, stone works, gems and jewelry, textiles, leatherwork to mesmerizing paintings, hand crafted games, traditional toys and dolls, carpets and floorings and awe inspiring sculptures and statues - India has perfected almost all the arts and handicrafts known to humanity. The various metals and materials used to create handicrafts and handcrafted gift items, such as wood, stone, metal, grass, papier mache, glass, cane and bamboo, textiles, clay, terracotta and ceramics, makes handcrafted items from India truly unique.
