Arts and crafts of Telangana have always been prominent in the country with the efforts of the skilled artisans who shape up diverse artefacts with their dexterity and aesthetic sense. The intricate carvings and beautiful adornments of these handicrafts make them immensely fascinating. The traditional ways applied to these crafts render them a distinct charm and they exhibit a great variety. These are cherished not only by the people of India but also by the international tourists. Several residents of Telangana have embraced the handicraft industry for earning their livelihood. Arts and crafts of Telangana find a perfect place in any lifestyle owing to their vast variety.
Bidri Craft
Bidri craft is regarded as the pride of the state. Comprising of silver engraved on metal, these crafts are unique in their own way. Historical records suggest that it has been brought in the region by Iran migrants. The crafting methodology includes several steps like casting, engraving, inlaying and oxidizing. Bidri craft got its name from Bidar town of the erstwhile Hyderabad state. It is used to craft a variety of artifacts like jewellery boxes, flower vases, paper weights, key chains, cuff links and many more. Bidri craft is popular across the globe.
Banjara Needle Crafts
Needle crafts of Banjara or Gypsies, significant tribes of Telangana, add to the repertoire of the alluring crafts of the state. These are the traditional handmade fabrics adorned in rich embroidery and mirror works. The incredible designs woven with colourful threads showcase the skills of the artisans. These crafts bring an exotic feel when used as home decors and this is the reason for which they are extensively preferred by people. Their unique earthiness peeping through geometrical patterns, various motifs and vibrant hues are very attractive.
Dokra Metal Crafts
Dokra metal craft is another tribal art, popularly found in the state of Telangana. Also known as bell metal craft, this craft is the specialty of Jainoor Mandal of the Adilabad district of Telangana where a number of artists from Ushegaon and Chittalbori regions contribute to this art greatly. Tribal Gods and figurines are the most common depictions of this art along with folk motifs, horses, elephants, peacocks, lamp caskets etc. which have a great command over national as well as international market. Lost wax technique is mainly used in this craft.
Nirmal Arts
A wide range of handicrafts are found in the Nirmal town of the Adilabad district. The artisans of this region are famous for making authentic and dazzling articles of vibrant colours utilizing traditional methods. Oil paintings of this region are well known with exquisite depictions of themes from epics. Nirmal crafts originated during Kakatiya era and mostly follow Indian and Mughal schools of art. Articles like lacquered furniture, boxes, pictures, wall hangings, trays etc are very admirable. Nirmal art encompasses both decorative as well as utilitarian items.
Bronze Castings
Bronze castings of Telangana are famed all over the world. Amazing idols are crafted in this art with skilled artistry exhibiting perfect measurements and proportions. Artistic symbolism and characteristics of the idols depicted in Bronze castings are very admirable. Moulds for solid casting of icons are created by using many coatings of various clays over a finished wax model. This helps in rendering fine curves to the cast image.
Lacquer Ware
Remarkable lacquer ware is found in the Etikoppaka town of Telangana. Lacquering is done by applying lacquer on wood which is achieved either by machine or with the help of hands. Various designs are painted with the brush for adorning the articles including toys, objects, figurines etc. Lac bangles are the most popular article of lacquer ware, which are beautifully embellished with mirrors, glass, beads and stones.