Sacredness Of Artisanal Work In India

By Author: Chaitanya Kumari
Total Articles: 231
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Traditionally, all forms of artisanal work in India were considered as art, and artisans were treated with the utmost respect. The number of crafts and arts in India is well over 3000; all the artworks testify to the exceptional skills of Indian artisans. Every zone of India has a craft/art that is unique to it. In all artisanal families, the abilities and skills are transferred to subsequent generations.

As a result, there were closely-knit artisan communities where the members complemented each other in creating excellent works of art. Here, the salient aspect is that, historically, artisanal work has been rated as a sacred one in India. The artisans also approached their job by treating it as a way of expressing their devotion to God. Let us now succinctly focus on some important, related aspects.

The artisans in India of that era never thought that their craft was only a source of livelihood for them. These skilled people strongly believed that the work that they do has a spiritual angle to it. It is something that takes them closer to God.
In ancient India, artisans used to design various kinds of items ...
... for different purposes. On one hand, they would make utility items that are required for everyday life. In the same way, they created objects for various rites and rituals pertaining to both happy and sad occasions. Weddings, childbirth, initiation, and death are a few occasions where many rituals are performed.
The craftspeople would make suitable items with total devotion, understanding the significance of the occasion. This again reflects the sacredness of artisanal work in age-old India. People who o ahead and buy the artworks of these talented artisans display reverence towards the sanctity of artisanal work.
The Indian artisans designed varied objects making use of only their hands; they were fully knowledgeable about the properties of all the materials used. The topmost dedication with which they created items subtly conveys that this work was worshiped for them. This contributes to the sacredness of this activity. When a skilled expert toils to that extent depending just on their hands, their abilities and experience become esteemed. And that is exactly what these artisans got from people: respect.
The artisanal activities in ancient India included carvings developed from metal and stone, pottery, textile works, painting, jewelry work, and block printing. These artisans made sure that the objects made by them mirrored the vast cultural heritage of India. As the pieces of art represent diverse traditions and cultures, it is logical that the work involved in making them is considered holy.
In the pre-colonial phase, the crafts and arts of India were renowned throughout the world. The artworks were exported to diverse regions of the globe; in that era, India gained recognition as the leading exporter. This was primarily attributable to the fact that, for the Indian craftspeople, their work was not just a profession. It was an activity that made them experience spiritual fulfillment.
As per Hindu scriptures, the thunderbolt used as a weapon by Lord Indra was made by Tvasta, who is known as a divine artisan. The Puranas add that gods are responsible for bringing into existence various aspects of the world. Yet, the gods themselves depended on the craft skills of Tvasta. This highlights how important the position of artisans was in ancient Indian society.

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