The Story of the Siddi Community and their Quilting Legacy
Tholu Bommalata, a traditional leather puppetry art from Nimmalakunta, Andhra Pradesh, has undergone a transformation, evolving into modern interior design. This art form involves creating intricate items from goat leather, utilising natural dyes and traditional tools. Artisans in Nimmalakunta use these techniques to produce a variety of decorative items, including lifelike lampshades, paintings, and wall hangings.
Tholu Bommalata is characterized by its vibrant depictions of themes from Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Sindhe Siva also incorporates modern and Western motifs, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. This fusion has led to the creation of approximately 150 unique items, which not only support the local economy but also attract tourists to the region. The intricate designs and quality of these products highlight the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, while also providing a modern touch that appeals to a diverse audience.
To further promote and sustain this traditional craft, Sindhe Siva have embraced digital platforms. By using social media and online marketplaces, they have reached a global audience, showcasing their work to potential customers worldwide. This digital presence helps expand their market beyond local and regional boundaries, increasing sales and ensuring the craft’s continued relevance.
At the Digital Artisans of India Award 2023-24, Sindhe Siva was recognised with the second prize for understanding digital to enhance, upskill and enable his artwork to reach the consumers directly, without interventions of middle-man or any sort of adulteration.
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