The exhibition Treasures of Rajasthan aims at promoting artisans from the desert state. Diya Kumari, trustee, Sawai Man Singh Museum and French ambassador François Richier speak to Shrabasti Mallik about reviving traditional crafts
One can do nothing more authentic or appropriate than shopping in Rajasthan. The lanes and streets lined with vibrant and multicoloured products ranging from clothes, jewellery to pottery and painting, keep the art and craft of the place alive. Treasures of Rajasthan, the two-day lifestyle exhibition at Indira Gandhi National Center for Arts (IGNCA) brings forth the hidden craftsmen of the place, who established themselves in Jaipur in the 1720s. It is organised in a bid to promote the rich culture of Rajasthan, which is not only distinct in the country but also has a reputation of maintaining its ethnicity.
Treasures of Rajasthan, spearheaded by Diya Kumari, offers a perfect platform to showcase the best of Rajasthan — textile, art, craft, jewels or travel and tourism. “It is an exhibition that glorifies the culture and tradition of Rajasthan. It is created, nurtured and supported by the Sawai Man Singh II Museum Trust, a not for profit organisation, that preserves 36 karkhanas founded by my father, late Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh, within the City Palace museum,” she said and added, “The palace also tries in its own little ways to empower craftsmen by creating markets and avenues where they can showcase their brilliant creations.”
The exhibition is organised in collaboration with the Embassy of France. François Richier, ambassador of France to India, detailed the intricate connection that both the places share. “The similarity between France and India is in their rich cultural histories, exquisite craftsmanship and love for heritage. The aim of the Embassy will be to develop and nurture that mutual area of interest. We will help promote the exchange of ideas in the revival of the arts and the preservation of our culture. We hope to link palaces and forts in Rajasthan with castles and chateaux in France,” he said.
The two-day show focusses on handpicked garments highlighting the textile traditions of Rajasthan. Diya also emphasised on the tie-and-dye concept and gotapatti work which can be complemented by both traditional kundan-polki jewellery and contemporary fashion accessories. That apart, the exhibition also showcases selected handicrafts and art objects like hand tufted carpets, blue pottery, paintings and lacquer products.
The exhibition aims to provide opportunities to artists and craftsmen with no prior experience. “We have invited artists and craftsmen from smaller places of the state and not only from Jaipur. Most of them have never had any kind of exposure in a market like Delhi. Our attempt is to bring these artists in direct connection to customers,” said Diya.
Among the participating artists, almost 70 per cent are women. “Many of them are standing on their own feet and are the bread earners for their families. They are practising craft of the rarest quality and keeping the traditions alive,” shared Diya.
photos Sanjeev Kumar