Module 12 : Modern Product Design & Crafts Design
  Lecture 32 : Indian Traditional Kitchen Utensils, Other Household Items, Metal Handicraft
 
India a country with 26 states and 18 languages and more than 1500 dialects has enormous rich heritage of handicraft production from ancient time. The major works are- wooden, glass, rugs, handprint fabrics, wrought iron works, stoneware, etc. The works can be divided in two categories- articles for everyday use and decorative articles.  Sarashi (plate 2A) is common instrument to hold hot pan. The same Sarashi may change its design due to local need. Iron tawa (plate 2B) is commonly used for backing roti. Traditionally iron tawa is preferred in most homes. Shil-batta (plate 2C) is one of most common tool that is used in Indian homes for grinding spices or vegetable since Indus Valley period. Modern day mechanized grinding machine has replaced the traditional Shil-batta, however for the right kind of cooking the stone-made Shil-batta is the most preferred utility instrument. Every household has grandma Shil-batta that is preserved for very special cooking occasion. Some of the cooking cannot produce the same taste without grind in Shil-batta. Hence, it occupies very special place in Indian kitchen. Boti is used for cutting vegetable and fish. It is popular in East (Bengal, Bihar and Odisa) and in North-east (Assam) region of India. It can cut in fine slices that require special skill.

Other Household Items

Plate 3A Cane-work
3B Woodcraft
3C Wooden Chair
3D Jhula

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Cane furniture (plate 3A) is admired by large number of people because of its elegance and durability. In tropical country the moisture content and heat affect wooden furniture. The temperature fluctuation and moisture does not affect cane because of its structural composition. It is light in weight and has tremendous elasticity. Cane work is entirely dependent on handcraft. In wood Indian craftsmen have created integrate design from ancient period. Labour extensive complex handcrafted works (plate 3B) have special significance because their rare quality and human touch. The simple design of collapsible (plate 3C) light weight wooden chair is admired by all. The craft orientation has inspired people to design and develop fascinating products for household usage. Sitting on Jhula (plate 3D) is one of the most relaxing item that is loved by people. The decorative quality of the Jhula makes it quite special at home. Thus, the concept of swing is transferred into a Jhula has taken special place inside our home. Traditionally the natural material like wood and cane has always drawn attention and admired by everybody through ages. Artisans have mastered the art of handicraft in such material throughout the world.