The term "Usta" is derived from the Persian word ‘Ustad,’ meaning a master in a specific art. Usta refers to a skilled caste of artisans in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India, renowned for their unique handmade artistic techniques. This ancient art form, brought to India by Mughal Emperors from Iran, flourished in the 16th and 17th centuries. Raja Rai Singh, a general in Emperor Akbar’s court, introduced Usta artisans to Bikaner, making it a centre for Usta Art.

Community | People
The term "Usta" is derived from the Persian word ‘Ustad,’ meaning a master in a specific art. Usta refers to a skilled caste of artisans in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India, renowned for their unique handmade artistic techniques. This ancient art form, brought to India by Mughal Emperors from Iran, flourished in the 16th and 17th centuries. Raja Rai Singh, a general in Emperor Akbar’s court, introduced Usta artisans to Bikaner, making it a centre for Usta Art.
Community | People
Craft, in essence, refers to the skill and practice of creating items by hand. These creations generally carry cultural significance, blending tradition with artistry to produce arts that are both functional and decorative. Crafts encompass a wide range of techniques and materials, from pottery and weaving to metalwork and textile arts, each reflecting the heritage and creativity of its makers.
Community | People
India has a rich tradition of wooden toy making, which not only entertains children but also aids in their development. In Andhra Pradesh, places like Nirmal, Etikoppaka, and Kondapalli are renowned for producing beautiful wooden toys. Nirmal, a small town in Telangana's Adilabad district, is particularly famous for its intricate wooden carvings and handicrafts.
Community | People
Koftgiri, an exquisite and intricate art form, has its roots deeply embedded in the cultural and historical fabric of India. This remarkable craft involves the decoration of arms and weaponry, making them not only tools of war but also objects of immense beauty and cultural significance. The origins of Koftgiri can be traced back approximately 500 to 700 years, flourishing during the illustrious Mughal era.
Community | People
Adaptive clothing is clothing specifically created for individuals with physical disabilities, seniors, and those who may struggle with dressing independently. This includes individuals who face challenges with manipulating closures like buttons and zippers, or those who lack the full range of motion needed for self-dressing, such as individuals with arthritis.
Community | People
Gujarat holds a rich textile heritage that spans centuries. It is renowned globally for its vibrant fabrics, intricate embroidery, and traditional craftsmanship. The textile heritage of Gujarat is a colourful tapestry of skill, culture, and history, deeply woven into the fabric of its society and revered worldwide for its beauty and craftsmanship. A considerable portion of India's textile production originates in Gujarat, a place where a rich tradition of craftsmanship thrives.


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