We’ve all admired handmade crafts — in markets, on walls, in homes. But many of these traditional Indian art forms are dying. These seven need our attention, and also, some action.
1. Rogan Art – Gujarat Rogan Art, renowned for its stunning, intricate patterns made with castor oil, is a 300-year-old craft from Gujarat, now struggling to survive in the modern age.
2. Pattachitra – Odisha and West Bengal This cloth-based scroll painting tells tales of Hindu mythology. Detailed and vibrant, it’s losing ground to digital prints and modern reproductions.
3. Toda Embroidery – Tamil Nadu Handmade by the Toda tribe of the Nilgiris, this geometric red-and-black embroidery is unique, but now fading as younger generations move away from the craft.
4. Bhil Art – Madhya Pradesh One of India’s oldest tribal arts, Bhil paintings use natural dyes and dots to tell folklore. Urbanisation and lack of awareness threaten its future.
5. Chhau Mask Making – West Bengal These vivid masks are essential for Chhau dance. Once flourishing in the Purulia district of West Bengal, this handmade craft struggles in the age of plastic and mass production.
6. Tholpavakoothu – Kerala A shadow puppetry art form based on Ramayana. With dwindling audiences, this temple-based tradition is slowly disappearing.
7. Lepcha Weaving – Sikkim A centuries-old handloom tradition of the Lepcha tribe, known for its exquisite patterns. With fewer artisans, the craft is being overshadowed by factory-made fabrics.
How can we help? 1. Buy handmade products directly from local artisans 2. Share videos and stories of dying crafts on social media 3. Attend craft fairs, exhibitions, and artisan-led workshops
4. Choose traditional crafts for gifts, clothing, and home décor 5. Encourage schools to include folk art in their curriculum