Rajasthan is one state that defines what India is all about. Culture, food, festivals, traditions, warmth, shopping. I don’t think there could be any other state that could define India in a better way. From little kids running after a camel and large forts in Udaipur / Jaipur to the only Brahma temple in the world, you have everything in Rajasthan. Here are a few things of Rajasthan which you can take back home as souveniers and cherish the time youspent in this beautiful state.
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RAJASTHAN MINIATURE PAINTINGS
Rajasthan is a place where you will find beautiful miniature paint-ings which will show you the royal and romantic life of the Mughals. The paintings are very vibrant, elegant and will change the whole look of your house. The painters uniquely mix different materials to get the best result such as silk, ivory, cotton and paper. There are various paintings from which you can choose which one do you want such as the Mewar, Bundi, Kota, Marwar, Bikaner, Jaipur and Kishangarh styles. Apart from that, there are other styles of paintings that are integral with the history of Rajasthan like mughal inspired miniature paintings and the exclusive Thani Bani painting from Kishangarh.
You can buy these beautiful work of art from local artists with a much cheaper price.
JEWELLERY AND GEMSTONES
Rajasthan is one of the largest centre for hand-cutting gemstones in the world. Every region in Rajasthan has its unique style and something to provide to its guests. Jaipur in particular, is famous for the Kundan and Meenakari styles of jewellery while Pratapgarh’s unique style involves gold work on glass and is referred as ‘Thewa’. You will also find different accessories like Silver headgears, necklaces, cuffs and anklets which are famous in many regions of Rajasthan. The silver accessories that you will get from the numerous shops and traditional bazaars of Rajasthan are of wonderful qualities, unique designs and rich colors. So whether you’re looking for rustic jewellery or something more regal, gold and silver or even precious stones, Rajasthan is truly a gem of a place for jewellery Shopping.
CARPETS AND DHURRIES
Rajasthan is traditionally well known for fine quality hand-knotted woollen carpets. These carpets were first manufactured by a group of Afghan weavers which were invited by the Mughal rulers in 17th century AD. These carpets are made of bright colors, diverse patterns, hand-knitting, finest quality of woolen fibers and the love of the local people who take pride by making them. The dhu-rries are usually made by weavers in villages who use looms to create an interesting blend of patterns which are mostly geomet-ric, sometimes floral in a dazzling combination of colours. The significant hubs from where you can source carpets in Rajasthan are Bikaner, Ajmer and Jaipur. You can also find them in smaller cities like Barmer, Tonk, and Choksu. The best way to buy a rug in Rajasthan is to get it from the carpet factories themselves where you can exercise your negotiation skills and have all the chances to come out as successful.
POTTERY
When it comes to pottery, Rajasthani blue pottery is one of the most notable ceramic styles in India. This style of pottery is made from quartz and not clay. It is the only pottery in the world that is made without using clay. The best pieces of blue pottery are hand painted with conventional floral or with figures of animals. This type of pottery is unique in its own way and is inspired by Persian art. The best thing about blue pottery is that it is does not develop cracks unlike regular earthen pots. The craft is mainly practiced in
Jaipur and to a lesser extent in Sanganer, Mahalan, and Neota as well.
TEXTILES
There are range of dyed and block printed fabrics to be purchased in Rajasthan. The unique textile styles are Block printing, tie and dye work, bandhni, color-riot, embroidery, appliqué which can be associated with Rajasthani fabric work. Mirror work and embroidery also portrays a colorful picture of Rajasthan. There are diverse pat-terns that are also visible in Rajasthani fabric work like Lahariya, Mothra, and the main textiles that are used generally – cotton, silk and wool. So next time you visit the state and in a mood to indulge in rich fabrics, you know what to choose.
The glorious past, rich culture and heritage and warm hospitality of the people will make your trip to Rajasthan all the more exciting. To top it all, it is one of the best places to shop in India. It is only in Rajasthan that you get most things ‘Make in India’. So be it jooties or mojaris to match your outfit or precious and semi-precious stones to adorn your neck piece or bracelet and miniature painting you’ll find everything here.


