In the World of Handicrafts

The spectacular Sun set, through the thicket was so engrossing that, when it was over, I discovered myself amidst a total darkness and the shutters of the handicraft centre of Aamar Kutir were likely to come down. Aamar Kutir Society for Rural Development located very close to the Shantiniketan of Birbhum. The centre was established before Indian independence and was providing a livelihood to several families, directly or indirectly involved with the society. Peeped through the window of the leather batik manufacturing unit and asked for their permission to enter and that was readily granted by the ardent workers who were tirelessly engaged in their work. The efforts of the workers even after a day’s hard work could be seen from their body language and they were not in mood to give up.

The tireless workers of Aamar Kutir,Shantiniketan,Birbhum

The warmth of their welcome was perceptible inside the room also. The arrangements for the leather batik centre, was all open to reveal its explicit techniques that modify a mere piece of leather into exotic handicrafts of glamorous colours.

Colour filling at Aamar Kutir center

The exploration began, to unfold the techniques of leather batik amongst some passionate workers, could not notice us or habituated with the visitors. The complete processes of leather batik comprise of few major steps. The leather pieces pass through the embossing unit where the traditional folk art or ethnic designs were imprinted, then the leather pieces were given specific shape, in the next part colour filling was done on application of some sorts of acid dye, then it was stitched and the finished products were stowed for the market. Unprompted stories or complete process of making of leather batik could be heard from the workers.

through the process at Aamar Kutir Batik center

The finished handicrafts were marketed within the premises and even exported. The manufactured products of diverse ethnic handicrafts were like galore of discriminating colours, from leather to cotton. The Batik of the Birbhum district adored worldwide, representing the ethos and rich heritage of India.

way to the market at aamar Kutir

In Shantiniketan, such small scale industries of handicraft were largely in existence and were even run by the local women from their home. The rural folks were also engaged in the venture and have generated a source of their income.

Batik print on sari,Shantiniketan

In Shantiniketan, I have visited the boutique of an energetic and innately talented old lady, was running her business from home. Her indubitable artistic works and creative ideas were reflected in every piece of her work. The exalting innovative ideas could be seen on design of kantha stitch, batik on cloth, and embroidery works, even the selection of colours, threads or everything were unique.