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CRAFTS Rajasthan is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts. The state has a long history of producing handicrafts that are not only beautiful but also serve practical purposes. Here are some of the prominent crafts of Rajasthan: BLOCK PRINTING: Block printing is a popular traditional craft of Rajasthan, which involves the use of carved wooden blocks to create intricate designs on textiles. The city of Jaipur is particularly famous for its block printing industry, and you can find a wide variety of block-printed textiles such as sarees, bedspreads, and cushion covers. BLUE POTTERY: Blue pottery is a distinctive style of pottery that originated in Rajasthan. It is made using a blend of quartz, feldspar, and glass powder, and is distinguished by its vibrant blue and white hues. The city of Jaipur is known for its blue pottery artisans, who create a range of items such as vases, bowls, and tiles. LEATHERWORK: Leatherwork is another traditional craft of Rajasthan, particularly in the city of Jodhpur. The city is known for its leather shoes, bags, and jackets, which are often decorated with intricate embroidery and beadwork. MINIATURE PAINTINGS: Miniature paintings are a traditional art form of Rajasthan, which involves intricate paintings on small canvases. The paintings often depict scenes from mythology or nature, and are characterized by their detailed brushwork and use of bright colors. The city of Udaipur is particularly famous for its miniature painting traditions. BANDHANI: Bandhani or tie-dye is a popular textile craft of Rajasthan, which involves tying small portions of fabric and then dyeing it to create intricate patterns. The city of Jodhpur is known for its bandhani artisans, who create a range of textiles such as sarees, dupattas, and scarves. 36Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

ARCHITECTURE Rajasthan is well-known for its rich architectural legacy, with monuments and structures reflecting a wide range of styles and influences. Here are some of Rajasthan’s most notable architectural styles and structures: RAJPUT ARCHITECTURE: Rajput architecture is a medieval style that developed in Rajasthan. It is distinguished by the use of native materials such as sandstone and marble, as well as exquisite carvings and ornamental detailing. The forts and palaces of Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur are notable examples of Rajput architecture. MUGHAL ARCHITECTURE: Mughal architecture was developed in India during the Mughal dynasty. Its usage of red sandstone, marble, and floral themes distinguishes it. The Jama Masjid and the Hawa Mahal in Jaipur are two prominent examples of Mughal architecture in Rajasthan. ISLAMIC ARCHITECTURE: Rajasthan has a sizable Muslim population, and Islamic architecture has influenced the state’s monuments and structures. The use of domes, arches, and geometric motifs distinguishes Rajasthani Islamic architecture. The Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra in Ajmer and the Moti Masjid in Bikaner are two prominent examples of Islamic architecture in Rajasthan. JAIN ARCHITECTURE: Jainism is prevalent in Rajasthan, and Jain architecture has influenced the state’s monuments and buildings. The exquisite sculptures, use of marble, and attention on symmetry distinguish Jain architecture. The Ranakpur Jain Temple and the Dilwara Temples are two prominent examples of Jain architecture in Rajasthan. COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE: The British colonial period influenced Rajasthan, as evidenced by some of the state’s structures and monuments. Rajasthani colonial architecture is distinguished by the use of brick and stone, wide windows, and verandahs. The Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur and the Laxmi Vilas Palace in Bharatpur are two prominent examples of colonial architecture in Rajasthan. 38Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Source: Trip Savey Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

TOURISM Rajasthan’s tourism business is considerable, with the state receiving millions of visitors each year. Rajasthan is a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists due to its rich cultural history, ancient sites, active customs, and natural beauty. FORTS AND PALACES: Rajasthan is well-known for its majestic forts and palaces, which showcase the state’s rich cultural legacy and history. The Amber Fort, the City Palace in Jaipur, the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, and the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur are among the most popular forts and palaces in Rajasthan. WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES AND NATIONAL PARKS: Rajasthan has a number of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that allow visitors to enjoy the state’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Ranthambore National Park, Sariska National Park, and Keoladeo National Park are among the most prominent wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Rajasthan. TEMPLES AND RELIGIOUS SITES: Rajasthan is a spiritual land, with various temples and religious sites attracting travellers from all over the world. The Brahma Temple in Pushkar, the Dilwara Temples on Mount Abu, and the Dargah Sharif in Ajmer are among the most popular temples and religious places in Rajasthan. FESTIVALS AND FAIRS: Rajasthan is well-known for its vivid festivals and fairs, which are celebrated with tremendous zeal and fervour. The Pushkar Camel Fair, the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer, and the Teej Festival in Jaipur are all popular festivals and fairs in Rajasthan. CULTURAL AND HERITAGE TOURISM: Rajasthan is a renowned destination for cultural and heritage tourism due to its rich cultural heritage and traditions. Among other things, visitors can enjoy the state’s folk music and dancing, traditional cuisine, and handicrafts. 40Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

41 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

THE NINE DIVISIONS OF RAJASTHAN Rajasthan, a diverse state in India, is composed of several distinct regions that contribute to its cultural tapestry. Mewar or Mewad, situated in the south-central part of Rajasthan, encompasses districts such as Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, and more. Marwar, located in western Rajasthan, lies partially in the Thar Desert and includes districts like Jodhpur, Barmer, and Pali. Gorwar stretches along the edge of the Aravalli Hills and is bound by Mewar and Gujarat, covering regions such as Jalore and Sirohi. Hadoti consists of districts like Bundi, Baran, Jhalawar, and Kota, bordered by Mewar and the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Dhundhar comprises Jaipur, Alwar, and Dausa districts, while Shekhawati is located in northeast Rajasthan and includes Jhunjhunu, Nagaur, and Churu districts. Ajmer, situated in the northwest, is surrounded by the Aravali Mountains, and Vagad in southeastern Rajasthan includes Dungarpur and Banswara districts. The Thar Desert, often referred to as the “Desert State of India,” covers approximately 70% of Rajasthan’s landmass and encompasses districts like Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, and Jodhpur. Each region possesses its own unique cultural heritage, contributing to the diverse and captivating identity of Rajasthan. 42Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

MEWAR Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

MEWA R : Mewar or Mewad is a region in the south-central part of Rajasthan state of India. It includes the present- day districts of Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, Udaipur, Pirawa Tehsil of Jhalawar District of Rajasthan, Neemuch and Mandsaur of Madhya Pradesh and some parts of Gujarat. For centuries, the region was ruled by Rajputs. The princely state of Udaipur emerged as an administrative unit during the period of British East India Company governance in India and remained until theW end of the British Raj era. HISTORY OF MEWAR: The origin of Mewar in the state of Rajasthan is rooted in mythology. The Ahar civilization of Mewar has been accepted as contemporary to the Indus Valley Civilization. In fact the Mewar dynasty traces its roots to the powerful Sun God and its history has been a continuous struggle for freedom of religion, thought and land against other Rajputs. Mewar remained in Mughals hands for about 150 years. It was a Rajput kingdom for several centuries and in the later ages became a Princely State under the British colonial rule. 43 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

GEOGRAPHY OF MEWAR: The northern and eastern parts of Mewar are made up of an important plateau while the western and southern portions are stony and hilly with dense forests. The cut-off point split between drainage of the Bay of Bengal and drainage of the Gulf of Khambhat runs almost throughout the middle of Mewar. The area is a part of the Kathiawar-Gir dry deciduous forests eco-region. THE CLIMATE OF MEWAR: Mewar has a semi tropical dry climate. Rainfall averages 660 mm/year, and is generally higher in the southwest and lower in the north eastern region. Over 90% of the rain typically falls in the period of June to September every year during the southwest monsoon. Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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UDAIPUR Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Source:Udaipur and Beyond Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

VENICE OF THE EAST Udaipur is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It serves as the administrative centre for the Udaipur district. It is the historical capital of Mewar in the old Rajputana Agency. It was constructed in 1559 by Udai Singh II of the Rajput Sisodia line, who relocated their headquarters from Chittorgarh to Udaipur when Chittorgarh was surrounded by Akbar. It remained the capital city until 1818, when it became a British princely state, and the Mewar region was absorbed into Rajasthan when India got independence in 1947. Udaipur is one of India’s most popular tourist attractions, noted for its history, culture, and gorgeous landscapes. It is commonly referred to as the “City of Lakes” because to its complex lake system. The city is surrounded by seven lakes. Five significant lakes, namely Fateh Sagar Lake, Lake Pichola, Swaroop Sagar Lake, Rangsagar Lake, and Doodh Talai Lake, have been included in the restoration project of the Government of India’s National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP). Udaipur is noted for its mediaeval forts and palaces, museums, galleries, natural sites and gardens, architectural temples, and traditional fairs, festivals, and buildings, in addition to its lakes. It is sometimes referred to as “Venice of the East” because of the numerous lakes that exist here. 50Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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HISTORY Udaipur was constructed in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II in the lush circular Girwa Valley on the Banas River, southwest of Nagda. The city was designated as the Mewar kingdom’s new capital. This region already possessed a wealthy commercial town, Ayad, which had served as Mewar’s capital from the 10th to the 12th centuries. The Girwa region was thus already well known to Chittaud monarchs, who moved there whenever enemy raids threatened the vulnerable tableland of Chittaurgarh. Following the 16th-century rise of artillery warfare, Rana Udai Singh II opted to relocate his capital to a more safe site during his exile at Kumbhalgarh. Ayad was flood-prone, so he chose the ridge east of Pichola Lake to establish his new capital city, where he met a hermit while hunting in the Aravalli Range foothills. According to the legend, the hermit blessed the king and directed him to build a palace on the spot, telling him that it would be securely guarded. As a result, Udai Singh II built a house on the location. Chittor was taken by Mughal Emperor Akbar in November 1567. Rana Udai Singh constructed a six kilometer long city wal with seven gates: Surajpole, Chandpole, Udiapole, Hathipole, Ambapole, Brahmpole, Delhi Gate, and Kishanpole. The region enclosed by these walls and gates is today referred to as the ancient city or the walled city. Akbar landed at Udaipur in September 1576 and stayed for six months till May 1577. Rana Amar Singh acknowledged vassalship to Mughal power under Emperor Jahangir in 1615, and Udaipur remained the realm’s seat until it became a princely state of British India in 1818. Despite intense pressure, Udaipur stayed free of Mughal control due to its steep terrain and inability to accommodate highly armoured Mughal horsemen. Maharana Mahendra Singh Mewar is now the 76th custodian of the Mewar dynasty. 52Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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CRAFTS TEXTILES: Udaipur is famous for ts traditional textiles, which include hand-woven fabrics, tie-dye fabrics, and block printed fabrics. Traditional apparel, home decor items, and accessories are made from these textiles. POTTERY: Udaipur is well-known for its traditional pottery, which includes earthenware, terracotta, and ceramic objects. These objects are handcrafted utilising ancient processes and are distinguished by their distinctive designs and shapes. LEATHERWORK: Another popular craft in Udaipur is leatherwork, where artists create handcrafted leather products including as bags, shoes, belts, and wallets. These products are noted for their durability and design and are produced from high quality leather. JEWELLERY: Udaipur is famous for its elaborate and gorgeous jewellery, which includes gold, silver, and gemstones. The jewellery is crafted with traditional techniques and designs and is renowned for its delicate detailing and craftsmanship. MARBLE AND STONE CARVING: Udaipur is also well-known for its marble and stone carving, where artisans make stunning sculptures, statues, and ornamental objects. These objects are recognised for their complex detailing and designs and are manufactured utilising ancient processes. METALWORK: Another prominent specialty in Udaipur is metalwork, in which artists create exquisite metal things such as lamps, candle stands, and home decor items. These objects are handcrafted utilising traditional methods and are noted for their distinctive designs and patterns. 54Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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PLACES TO VISIT CITY PALACE: The City Palace is a magnificent palace complex located on the shores of Lake Pichola. It combines Rajasthani and Mughal architectural traditions and is home to various palaces, museums, and courtyards. The royal complex is also well-known for its lovely gardens, fountains, and sculptures. LAKE PICHOLA: A lovely lake in the centre of Udaipur, Lake Pichola is surrounded by hills, temples, and palaces. It is a renowned tourist destination where people may go on boat rides and enjoy the scenery. JAG MANDIR: Jag Mandir is a palace situated on an island in Lake Pichola. The palace is famous for its beautiful architecture, gardens, and marble sculptures. It also has spectacular views of the lake and the city of Udaipur. SAHELIYON KI BARI: Saheliyon Ki Bari is a lovely garden complex designed for the royal household’s women. The park, which has fountains, pools, and lovely flowers, is a favourite area for picnics and photography. FATEH SAGAR LAKE: Fateh Sagar Lake is a lovely artificial lake in the northwestern part of Udaipur. The lake, which is flanked by hills and parks, is a popular destination for boating, picnics, and leisure. MONSOON PALACE: Located on a hilltop on the outskirts of Udaipur, the Monsoon Palace is a lovely palace. It is well-known for its spectacular views of the city and surrounding hills, and it is a popular site for sunset viewing. 56Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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RELIGIOUS PLACES Udaipur is a city in Rajasthan, India, famed for its gorgeous lakes, palaces, and temples. Here are several religious sites in Udaipur that you should visit: JAGDISH TEMPLE: A 17th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Jagdish Temple is located in the heart of Udaipur. It’s famous for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. EKLINGJI TEMPLE: Eklingji Temple is a complex of 108 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 22 kilometres from Udaipur in the hamlet of Eklingji. The temple complex is well-known for its stunning architecture and rich embellishments. NEEMACH MATA TEMPLE: The Neemach Mata Temple is a hilltop shrine overlooking Udaipur. It is dedicated to the Hindu deity Neemach Mata and offers spectacular city views. AMBAMATA TEMPLE: Located in the centre of Udaipur, the Ambamata Temple is a prominent shrine devoted to the Hindu deity Ambamata. The temple is well-known for its stunning architecture and tranquil environment. SHRINATHJI TEMPLE: Shrinathji Temple is a prominent Lord Krishna temple located near Nathdwara, around 50 kilometres from Udaipur. The temple is well-known for its stunning architecture and rich murals. These are only a few of the many religious places in Udaipur and its surroundings. The city is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are numerous temples, palaces, and ancient places to visit. 58Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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TOURISM Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” is a captivating destination for tourists from around the world. Udaipur offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and architectural wonders. The city is adorned with enchanting lakes. Udaipur’s opulent palaces like the City Palace a magnificent complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Udaipur emperors and the Lake Palace showcase the grandeur and artistic excellence of the Rajput era. Lake Pichola, surrounded by hills, majestic palaces and ancient temples offers a serene setting for boating and soaking in the breathtaking scenery. The Jagdish Temple, with its intricate carvings and stunning architecture, showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. Saheliyon Ki Bari, adorned with fountains, a lotus pool, and marble elephants, invites visitors to wander through its tranquil gardens. Fateh Sagar Lake, embraced by picturesque hills and gardens, is a popular spot for boating and water sports. The Monsoon Palace, perched atop a mountain, treats visitors to panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. And Bagore Ki Haveli, an 18th-century mansion turned museum, captivates with its beautiful architecture and displays of traditional Rajasthani attire. The narrow winding streets of the old city, lined with colorful markets and traditional havelis and vibrant arts and crafts scene, traditional folk performances, and the flavors of Rajasthani cuisine provide an authentic cultural experience. Udaipur truly enchants visitors with its regal charm and a tapestry of captivating attractions. 60Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

ROUTE TO UDAIPUR 61 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

MODES OF TRANSPORT 1hrs 15mins To travel from Vadodara to Udaipur by air, you can take a flight from Vadodara Airport to Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur. Several airlines operate regular flights between these two cities. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a convenient and time-saving option. 6hrs 11mins To travel from Vadodara to Udaipur by road, you can follow the National Highway 48 route. Start by heading east from Vadodara on the NH48 and continue on this route for approximately 240 kilometers until you reach Udaipur. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. 7hrs 34mins To travel from Vadodara to Udaipur by train, you can follow this route. First, board a train from Vadodara Junction Railway Station to Ahmedabad Junction. From Ahmedabad, catch a connecting train to Udaipur City Railway Station. The journey typically takes around 7-8 hours, depending on the train and its schedule. 62Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

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THIKRI Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

BEGINNING OF THIKRI Thikri is traditional glass inlay work that originates from decoration, and handicrafts of Rajasthan. Thikri work the Indian state of Rajasthan. It involves creating intricate is often associated with the rich cultural heritage of designs and patterns using stone and glass. Thikri art form the state and is appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and is associated with luxury and elegance due to its ornate craftsmanship.The meaning of the word “Thikri” can designs. The process involves cutting small pieces of glass also be found in the Urdu language where it is spelled as into specific shapes juxtaposed in their defined place to “Theekri” meaning ‘a piece or fragment of an earthen vessel, form a pattern. The reflective quality of the glass adds to or a like brittle substance, as the shell of an egg or snail’. the visual appeal of the pieces, and the natural stones used in the surfaces add a touch of sophistication to any interior decor. This traditional Indian art form has been passed down through generations and is revered for its intricate details, shimmering beauty, and timeless appeal. In Rajasthan, India, the term “thikri” refers to a traditional In Udaipur when we asked the artisans about the meaning crafttechniqueusedinthecreationofdecorativemirrorwork. behind the name, they referred to it as the big glass pot The origin of the word “thikri” can be traced back to the local that forms after the glass blowing process and when they dialects of Rajasthan, particularly the Rajasthani language. break the pot, they get the small Thikri pieces with which The craft of thikri involves the skilled application of they create their products. small pieces of mirror onto various surfaces such as walls, furniture, and textiles, creating intricate and sparkling designs. It is commonly found in the architecture, interior 66Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Udaipur is rich in cultural heritage, with lakes, Thikri art is an enduring artistic method temples, enormous forts, and palaces. The city has from a bygone era that employs hand blown struck a balance between preserving old rituals and glass pieces on a powdered limestone base to customs and keeping up with current innovations create elaborate geometric mirror patterns. and lifestyle changes. Folk dance and music, as These art pieces are embellished with great attention in the rest of Rajasthan, play an important role and expert craftsmanship to give them an unworldly in adding to the cultural richness of the city. charm that makes them incredibly ornamental. The Bharatiya Lok Kala Mandal is a cultural The old art is a rich tradition that has been passed down group situated in New Delhi. The institute, from generation to generation in order to preserve together with its museum, houses a collection of it alive in modern times. Thikri art is an enduring Rajasthani art and culture. The museum houses artistic method from a by gone era that employs a variety of apparel, tribal jewellery, turbans, hand blown glass pieces on a powdered limestone dolls, masks, musical instruments, paintings, base to create elaborate geometric mirror patterns. and puppets that depict Udaipur’s royal lifestyle. This traditional art form is represented by Udaipur’s These art pieces are embellished with great attention City Palace, Amer Fort, and Jaipur’s City Palace. and expert craftsmanship to give them an unworldly The old art is a rich tradition that has been charm that makes them incredibly ornamental. passed down from generation to generation in order to preserve it alive in modern times. 67 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE CRAFT Pachikaari Kala / Glass Inlay has its origins in the The origins of thikri craft in India, particularly in the state Mughal period, according to evidence and speculations. of Rajasthan, are not well-documented. However, it is Mughal patronage brought in artists from all over who believed to have been influenced by various historical and specialised in the mirror craft, and the Mughal rulers cultural factors. One significant influence on thikri craft began incorporating the mirror craft in their art forms. in India is believed to be the Mughal Empire, which had a Mirrors were always thought to be a valuable commodity profound impact on the art and architecture of the Indian that could be used to flaunt royalty, wealth, and patronage. subcontinent. The Mughals introduced and popularized It wasn’t long before the glass began to sparkle in the eyes the use of intricate mirrorwork in their architectural of the Rajput rulers, who believed that when used in this structures, such as palaces, forts, and tombs. This influence manner, this material could reflect their royalty better can be seen in the extensive use of mirror work in Rajasthani than most crafts! Rajput dynasties all across the world architecture, including the palaces and havelis of Rajasthan. began to use Pachikaari Kala in their palaces in various forms, sizes, and purposes. The practise of inlaying hand cut pieces of mirrors into Additionally, the nomadic and semi-nomadic communities exact forms using diamond scalpels and arranging them in Rajasthan, such as the Banjara and Rabari tribes, into frescos on the ceiling and walls to produce geometric have a rich tradition of mirror work in their textile mirrored mosaic patterns is known as “thikri” or mirror crafts. Known for their vibrant and embellished textiles, inlay or glass mosaic. Thikri work is an old traditional art alongside other embroidery techniques. It is possible form from Rajasthan, where limestone, the base for thikri, that these communities played a role in the development abounds. It is used to embellish the walls, ceilings, niches, and spread of mirror work as a craft in Rajasthan. and even panels, tiles, and furniture. This work may be Over time, mirror work and thikri craft became found in several of Rajasthan’s iconic palaces and heritage deeply integrated into the cultural and artistic kothis, including the well-known Amer Fort and Jaipur’s traditions of Rajasthan. Skilled artisans and City Palace, where the ceilings, walls, and niches of the craftsmen held on to their expertise, passing down Baradari café bear witness to this heritage art style. techniques and designs from generation to generation. 70Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

69 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND PRESERVATION OF THE CRAFT Thikri craft in Udaipur is deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of the region. It showcases the artistic skills of local craftsmen and reflects the royal and architectural traditions of Rajasthan. Thikri work adds a sense of grandeur and aesthetic appeal to the spaces it adorns. When we were walking through the streets of Udaipur, we could see endless window panes and walls of different houses covered in this craft. It was very interesting to see that this craft isn’t just present in the huge monuments and palaces of Udaipur. Due to its elegance and beauty, people had decorated parts of their houses and shops with this craft. The presence of this craft in buildings and houses tells us that it is also long lasting and can be preserved for a long time with the proper care and maintenance. Efforts have been made to preserve and revive thikri craft in Udaipur and Rajasthan. Artisans and organizations are working towards promoting the craft, conducting workshops, and providing training to the younger generation to ensure its continuation. All they need is the proper financial support from government organizations, private companies and non-government organizations for the growth and preservation of this craft. 72Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

THE DIRECTOR NAME: Mr. RAJESH ANANT MAHESHWARI PROFESSION: Master Craftsmen, Businessman Anant Ji is the owner of The Glass Inlay, a store and workshop near Jagdish Mandir. He began his journey as an apprentice at local glass inlay workshops and quickly realised that the skill is something he wants to pursue both as a passion and as a full-time career. His dedication, perseverance, and ambition to share information about the art prompted him to build notable movie sets such as ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’ and the backdrop for Lord Ganesha’s most massive idol, ‘Lalbaughchya Raaja’. Mr. Rajesh has been fascinated by the beauty of glass since he was a child. He was awestruck by the Thikri work done in Udaipur’s city palace. Growing up, he imagined combining knowledge, skill, andhis own vision to revolutionise the craft of Thikri, also known as Glass Inlay. 73 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

MEET THE TEAM NAME: NITIN SHARMA AGE: 37 years He has been working at Mr. Maheshwari’s Glass Inlay shop for almost 15 years. His major job as a craftsman is to cut glass and prepare designs. He learned about the craft via a relative who was Anant Ji’s friend, and this is how he got hired. His interests include wood carving and travel. NAME: AJAY SIKLIGAR AGE: 27 years He’s been at the shop for nearly 15 years. He learned about this craft from a relative who was Anant Ji’s friend. His favourite aspect of his job is making colourful glasses. He is especially interested in Udaipur’s bone inlay skill. His interests include travel and cuisine. 74Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

NAME: HIMANSHU SIKLIGAR Age: 18 years He’s been working for Anant ji for two years. He is the artisan Ajay bhaiya’s brother, and he has been both studying and assisting his brother at work. He adores cutting and pasting glass. He spends his free time watching films and television shows. NAME: SANGRAM SINGH JHALA AGE: 40 years He has been with Aanant Ji for ten years. He is the shop’s transport manager. He has his own transportation company, where he rents out his automobiles and also transports cargo. For three years, he worked at the Taj Lake Palace, where he drove vintage cars. Marble inlay is another technique he is interested in. His interests include travelling and discovering new locations. 75 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

NAME: VINESH VASHIST Age: 45 years He’s been with Anant Ji for about 30 years. Because of his skills and artistry, he is commonly referred to as a ‘Ustaad’ there. He learned about this work through intimate contacts. He is primarily in charge of the marble paste application and finishing operations. His other interest is carpentry. NAME: DEVENDRA SIGNH SOLANKI (RINKU) AGE: 42 years He has been working with Anant Ji for over 20 years. He was the first artisan to join Anant Ji’s workshop. His brother is Anant Ji’s acquaintance, which is how he learned about this project. He is also an expert at Pichwai painting. His interests include travel and drawing. NAME: JALAJ MAHESHWARI AGE: 21 years He is Anant Ji’s son, and he has been working for his father for roughly 6-7 years. He is in charge of the shop’s internet website, which he launched in 2019 using a (.in)domain. When they started gaining international clientele, he upgraded the domain to.com. The webpage is strictly for viewing purposes. Customers can contact him via the website, and subsequent transactions are completed over Whatsapp. NAME: MANISH KUMAWAT AGE: 23 years He is the team’s leader and has been working with Anant Ji for almost ten years. He and a few others install the art piece to the wall in a specific location. Ananat Ji and another artist go to the area to fix the glass pieces on the wall if the job is to be done directly on the wall. NAME: RANCHOD SHARMA AGE: 31 years He is the shop’s carpenter and has been working for Anant Ji for 5 years. He is in charge of cutting the plywood into various shapes and sizes and preparing it for usage. He also conducts carpentry in a variety of other areas. 76Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

WORKING SYSTEM OF ARTISANS The different types of glasses They then start their work on preparing are ordered to the workshop by the designs and once the designs are the master craftsman Mr. Anant made, the glass is cut accordingly. Maheshwari. He then gives it to the working artisans, The glass pieces a Mr. Devendra Singh Solanki, Mr. Nitin and are kept to dry Sharma and Mr. Ajay Sikligar. Mr. Himanshu Sikligar is an apprentice there, so most of the cutting for small monotonous designs are given to him to gain more experience. 77 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

After the design is dry, it is ready to be In case of the absence, Mr. Vinesh mounted on the plywood. Vashist the fixing process is taken care of by the more experienced artisans. are pasted on paper It is then submitted to Mr. Vinesh y in the sunlight. Vashist who fixes those designs on the plywood using the marble paste and completes the cleaning process for the art piece. 78Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

FLOORPLAN Artisan’s Workplace & Shops Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Main Workshop and Shop (Referance Sketch) 80Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Shop No.1 (Display Room & Marble Workshop) (Referance Sketch) 81 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

Shop No.2 (Display Room) (Referance Sketch) 82Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

TOOLS & RAW MATERIALS Diamond cutter (Vigrue Glass Cutter): The outstanding characteristics of a Vigrue glass cutting tool are its weight and head; its head swivels at 360° and makes it easy to cut curves and long straight lines. The structure of a Vigrue glass cutter is like that of a pencil cutter and has a pencil grip with an oil reservoir. It is capable of cutting thicknesses of 0.3 cm to 1.8 cm or 1/8 inch to 45/64 inch. A pencil grip cutter is shaped like a pencil with a straight shaft. It is held like a pencil with the index finger resting on the top of the shaft to apply pressure. Though pencil grip cutters are very simple, certain versions have an oil reservoir. One of the benefits of pencil grip glass cutters is the close contact they provide when scoring the glass surface. Breaker-grozier pliers, or groziers are pliers used by glaziers to break and finish glass in a controlled manner, a technique known as grozing. They are dual purpose pliers, with a flat jaw that is used for breaking out scores and a curved jaw that is used for grozing flares from the edge of broken glass. Both jaws are serrated for removing flares and tiny points of glass. 83 Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

COMPONENTS OF THE MARBLE PASTE A powder consisting of zinc and calcium. Ratio of the marble paste: Water, Fevicol and Marble powder in the ratio of 2:2:6. GURMANI: It is a tool used to press and level all the glass pieces with the paste. KARNI: It is a leaf shaped tool that works like a spatula which is used for mixing the marble paste to get a smooth, even consistency. TEMPERATURE: The temperature at which glass melts at a furnace to prepare for the blowing process is 1320 degrees Celcius. 84Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023

CRAFTMANSHIP CHRONICLES Craft Documentation | Thikri | B.Des | Accessory Design | 2023