Sacredness Of Artisanal Work In India
                     Sacredness Of Artisanal Work In India
Chaitanya Kumari
Writes informational articles on ancient Indian 
artisan vocational education, 64 kala or 
chausat kala, along with others articles on finance, 
health, sanathana dharma and wisdom.
Traditionally, all forms of artisanal work in India were considered as art, and artisans 
were treated with the utmost respect. The number of crafts and arts in India is well 
over 3000; all the artworks testify to the exceptional skills of Indian artisans. Every 
zone of India has a craft/art that is unique to it. In all artisanal families, the abilities 
and skills are transferred to subsequent generations.
As a result, there were closely-knit artisan communities where the members 
complemented each other in creating excellent works of art. Here, the salient aspect 
is that, historically, artisanal work has been rated as a sacred one in India. The 
artisans also approached their job by treating it as a way of expressing their devotion 
to God. Let us now succinctly focus on some important, related aspects.
 The artisans in India of that era never thought that their craft was only a source 
of livelihood for them. These skilled people strongly believed that the work 
that they do has a spiritual angle to it. It is something that takes them closer to 
God.
 In ancient India, artisans used to design various kinds of items for different 
purposes. On one hand, they would make utility items that are required for 
everyday life. In the same way, they created objects for various rites and 
rituals pertaining to both happy and sad occasions. Weddings, childbirth, 
initiation, and death are a few occasions where many rituals are performed.
 The craftspeople would make suitable items with total devotion, understanding 
the significance of the occasion. This again reflects the sacredness of artisanal 
work in age-old India. People who o ahead and buy the artworks of these 
talented artisans display reverence towards the sanctity of artisanal work.
 The Indian artisans designed varied objects making use of only their hands; 
they were fully knowledgeable about the properties of all the materials used. 
The topmost dedication with which they created items subtly conveys that this 
work was worshiped for them. This contributes to the sacredness of this 
activity. 
 When a skilled expert toils to that extent depending just on their hands, their 
abilities and experience become esteemed. And that is exactly what these 
artisans got from people: respect.
 The artisanal activities in ancient India included carvings developed from 
metal and stone, pottery, textile works, painting, jewelry work, and block 
printing. These artisans made sure that the objects made by them mirrored 
the vast cultural heritage of India. As the pieces of art represent diverse 
traditions and cultures, it is logical that the work involved in making them is 
considered holy.
 In the pre-colonial phase, the crafts and arts of India were renowned 
throughout the world. The artworks were exported to diverse regions of the 
globe; in that era, India gained recognition as the leading exporter. This was 
primarily attributable to the fact that, for the Indian craftspeople, their work 
was not just a profession. It was an activity that made them experience 
spiritual fulfillment.
 As per Hindu scriptures, the thunderbolt used as a weapon by Lord Indra was 
made by Tvasta, who is known as a divine artisan. The Puranas add that gods 
are responsible for bringing into existence various aspects of the world. Yet, 
the gods themselves depended on the craft skills of Tvasta. This highlights 
how important the position of artisans was in ancient Indian society.
About Living Smartly
Living-smartly.com is a website that publishes information specifically focused on 
helping people to make right choices in their every day challenges. Living Smartly 
provides smart tips & insights that covers all aspects of daily living such as general 
health & dental health, philosophy, social skills, technology, wellness, gifts etc.
        Thank you for spending your precious time in reading this article!