Bidriware/Bidri Works - Traditional Metal Crafts of Bidar
Bidriware is a metal handicraft that originated in Bidar, Karnataka, in the 14th century, during the rule of the Bahamani Sultans. The term 'Bidriware' originates from the township of Bidar, which is still the chief centre for the manufacture of this unique metalware. Due to its strikingly intricate inlay work involving pure silver, Bidriware has always been prized as a symbol of wealth. The metal used is a blackened alloy of zinc and copper inlaid with thin sheets of pure silver. Traditional Bidri artefacts are in high demand in the country as well globally. Bidar city is well known for its unique Bidri handicraft products.
Channapatna Toys-Gombegala Ooru
Channapatna is an hour's drive from Bengaluru, on the way to Mysore. This town is also referred as Toy Town. Channapatna toys are the traditional speciality of the Channapatna taluk. They are well known and in demand all over the globe. Tippu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, the present Karnataka State, was a great admirer of wooden toys. He invited artisans from Persia to train the local artisans in the making of wooden toys. Rosewood and sandalwood were also occasionally used in making the toys, but the main wood used was ivory wood for almost two centuries. They also use teak, pine, rubber and cedar wood.
Kolam: Ritualistic Threshold Drawings and Designs of Tamil Nadu
Kolam are a type of threshold drawings and designs found in Tamil Nadu. Like many other parts of India, threshold drawings are very famous in Tamil Nadu. Kolam is also practiced in other states of South India such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.