The Story of the Siddi Community and their Quilting Legacy
The copper bell-making tradition of Kutch, primarily upheld by the Muslim Lohar community, is a case study to the enduring relationship between craftspeople and the pastoralist communities they serve. These bells, originally crafted for livestock, have evolved over time to become decorative items for homes, musical instruments, and festive ornaments. This transformation in usage reflects not only the versatility of the bells but also the adaptability of the craftsmen.
The process of creating these bells is deeply rooted in sustainability, as the artisans use recycled metal to forge each piece. The crafting process is meticulous, involving several stages to achieve the distinctive metallic sheen that characterizes Kutch’s copper bells. This technique, passed down through generations, highlights the preservation of traditional knowledge within the community. Javed Luhar’s expertise ensures that each bell is not just a functional item but also a piece of art, embodying the cultural heritage of his region, his art and his legacy.
In recent years, the traditional craft has embraced modernity through digital platforms. Javed Luhar has begun to leverage social media and e-commerce websites to showcase and sell their products to a global audience.
At the Digital Artisans of India Award 2023-24, Javed Luhar was recognised with the second prize for his digital transformation that has not only expanded their market reach but also provided a new avenue for preserving and promoting their craft.
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