Sikar, a vibrant city in the heart of Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, is not only known for its grand havelis and frescoes but also for its rich heritage of arts and crafts. Among the many traditional crafts, the elaborate tie-and-dye designs (Bandhani) stand out as the most iconic. From hand-carved wooden furniture to radiant lac bangles and embroidered leather footwear, Sikar showcases Rajasthan’s artisanal brilliance.
1. Bandhani – The Art of Tie-and-Dye
Have you heard about Bandhani, also known as tie-and-dye? It is in fact the most popular and widely practised art form in Sikar. This traditional dyeing technique involves tying cloth into small knots using threads and dyeing it in vibrant colors. The tied areas resist the dye, creating intricate dotted, striped, or wave-like patterns.
Popular Bandhani Variants in Sikar:
- Chunari: Known for its fine dotted design.
- Lahariya: Features diagonal wave patterns in bright hues.
- Mothra: Recognizable by large dotted prints and bold motifs.
Sikar is considered the finest producer of Bandhani in the entire Shekhawati belt, with artisans dyeing fabrics in multiple stages to create stunning, multicolored designs.
2. Wood Carving – A Legacy in Architecture
Another spectacular art form of Sikar is wood carving, especially seen in traditional doors, windows, and furniture. This age-old craft is not only decorative but also functional, offering security and grandeur to havelis and forts.
Key Features of Sikar’s Wood Carving:
- Intricately carved wooden doors and window shutters.
- Large fort doors with metal fittings for protection.
- Exquisite ceiling beams, brackets, and inner courtyard doors with artistic details.
Ramgarh Shekhawati, a town in Sikar district, is especially renowned for elegantly carved wooden furniture that reflects Rajput architectural elegance.
3. Lac Bangles – The Traditional Adornment
Lac bangles are a staple accessory for women in Shekhawati, and Sikar is a hub for this beautiful craft. Lac (resin) is molded, colored, and embedded with decorative stones to create these vibrant and festive bangles.
Local craftsmen specialize in:
- Making colorful lac bangles in various designs.
- Using mirror work, stones, and patterns to enhance appeal.
- Selling bangles for weddings, festivals, and daily wear.
These bangles are not just ornaments—they’re a symbol of Rajasthani culture and feminine tradition.
4. Mojadi – The Art of Leather Footwear
Sikar is also famous for its handcrafted mojadi, a type of traditional Rajasthani leather footwear. These shoes are not only durable but also artistically embroidered.
What Makes Mojadis Unique:
- Made from high-quality leather.
- Decorated with colorful threads, sequins, and beads.
- Known for their pointed toes and symmetrical designs.
Mojadis from Sikar are loved across Rajasthan for their comfort, ethnic charm, and stylish craftsmanship.
Conclusion
From Bandhani fabrics to hand-carved wood, lac bangles, and embroidered mojadis, Sikar offers a treasure trove of traditional arts and crafts. These age-old practices continue to thrive, thanks to the skilled artisans and their dedication to preserving Rajasthan’s rich cultural legacy.
If you’re planning a visit to Sikar or exploring handmade Rajasthani art, don’t miss these cultural gems of Shekhawati.