Banjara Work
| Crochet Lace
BANJARA WORK
 Banjara
Needle Work is one art that inspires a sense of freedom. Banjaras, the nomads in
the past now aggregating in groups, called the Tanadas, still strive to preserve
the fascinating and unpredictable traditions of their ancestors. Till date the
Banjara tribe has been an inseparable part of the Telangana region, largely
practiced in Hyderabad and Chittoor district. Their needlework has a style of its own that
is distinct from the embroidery work of the Banjaras from Gujarat and the Kutch
area.
The agile fingers of the Banjara
womenfolk move delicately tracing the intricate threadwork and the memorable mirror work
of theirs. Various stitches like chain stitch, long stitch and short stitch are used to
make different patterns, geometric combinations and motifs that reflects the sense of
freedom. The use of mirrors, vibrant colours, shells and beads gives a kaleidoscopic touch
that is characteristic of the Art.
The Crafts Council of Andhra Pradesh is
trying its best to promote and nourish the craft, noted for its originality and elegance
by improving the quality and standard of work. The government also is assisting the tribe
for the procurement of better raw material. Dress sets, pouches, wall decoratives, cushion
covers, bed covers, table cloths are some of the items to mention in this craft. |
