Likhai (Hindi for 'writing') refers to the ancient woodcarving tradition of Uttarakhand, a North Indian mountain state.[1] Given the rapid urbanization in the region and migration of artisans to larger cities for more lucrative jobs, the craft is said to be on the verge of "vanishing".[2]
History and practice
There are no texts recording the history of the craft, and the skills and knowledge are passed down practically through apprenticeships.[3] The motifs carved on windows, pillars or doorframes include: local flora and fauna, folklores, religious symbols, geometric patterns.
References
- ^ Nanduri, Nikhila (2018). "Graphic narratives from the hills: a wood-carving tradition in Uttarakhand, India". Oral History. 46 (2): 97–108 – via JSTOR.
- ^ Irani, Gustasp & Jeroo (June 10, 2017). "Ganga Ram is the last surviving master craftsman of Kumaon's fading Likhai woodwork tradition" – via www.thehindu.com.
- ^ "The Disappearing Craft of Likhai" – via Outlook Traveller.
This page was last edited on 11 January 2023, at 16:33