India’s diverse cultural fabric is beautifully woven with an assortment of crafts, each representing the essence of its region. While Shillong, nestled in the Northeastern part of India, and Kerala, located in the southwestern corner, may seem worlds apart, a closer look reveals intriguing similarities in their traditional crafts. In this blog, we embark on a journey to unravel how Shillong’s craft resonates with the traditional crafts of Kerala, transcending geographical boundaries to celebrate India’s rich tapestry of artisanal heritage.
Bamboo Crafts Brilliance
Kerala and Shillong both have a deep regard for bamboo workmanship. Although bamboo is common in both areas, it also serves as a creative medium. Similar to Kerala’s bamboo craft, which includes recognizable objects like the “uruli” (traditional cookware) and “koodu” (bamboo birdcages), Shillong’s artists construct exquisite bamboo products, from furniture to ornamental pieces.
Nature-Inspired Motifs
Traditional crafts from Kerala frequently take their design cues from the natural world, including lotus flowers, elephants, and coconut palms. The rich scenery of the area serves as inspiration for Shillong’s crafts as well. Both regions appreciate the natural world in their handmade creations, demonstrating the close relationship between their craftspeople and their surroundings.
Handwoven Textiles
Shillong and Kerala have a craft legacy in handloom weaving. Indigenous tribes like the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo make handwoven textiles in Shillong that have intricate designs and vivid colours. On the other hand, Kerala’s handloom industry is still known for its traditional “kasavu” sarees and distinctive weaving methods. Both areas are excellent in maintaining and advancing the craft of handloom weaving.
Cultural Significance
Shillong and Kerala both place a great deal of cultural and spiritual significance on their crafts. Shillong artisans produce ceremonial objects, sacred artefacts, and musical instruments that are essential to indigenous rites. Crafts are deeply woven into festivals and rituals at temples in Kerala. The crafts preserve and spread tradition by acting as channels for culture.
Pottery Heritage
Kerala is well-known for its terracotta pottery, especially in Thrissur, a town known for its temples, where expert potters create famous oil lamps and figurines. In Shillong, the Longpi Black Pottery tradition stands out with its unique black color and coiling technique. Both areas show how pottery is not just functional but also a form of aesthetic expression.
Wooden Elegance
Another common craft is woodcraft. Keralan artists specialize in creating excellent wooden sculptures for temple construction. The manifestation of woodcraft in Shillong takes the form of elaborate furniture and ornaments. The wooden works from both locations display a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
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