Bidricraft from Andhra Pradesh
BIDRIWARE: THE PRIDE OF BIDAR
India is a land of rich culture, history, tradition, art and craft. Whether you go to the north, south, east or west direction, the traditional craft seems to be flowing everywhere. One such type is Bidriware or Bidri craft originating from the state of Karnataka.
Bidriware was first practised in ancient Persia and was brought to India by the followers of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. These craftsmen settled in Bidar, situated on the Deccan plateau in Karnataka and it is from here the art originated. Patronised by the Bahamani rulers who ruled over the district in the 14th century, the art form developed as an amalgam of Persian and Arabic cultures with the local art of India. Since then, the art is practised by the descendants of craftsmen of that era. Bidri craftsmen use a special variety of soil available only in the Bidri Fort area to make authentic artefacts. The artisans identify good quality soil from the fort by tasting it with the tip of their tongues, a unique technique of testing which is believed to be passed on from one generation to the other and seasoned with experience.
Bidriware is an eight-stage process. It begins with a mould that is formed from the soil. The molten metal (an alloy of copper and zinc in the ratio of 1:16) is then poured into it to obtain a cast piece which is later smoothened by a file and designed by chisels. After this, the model is engraved using a chisel and a hammer. Pure silver wires or strips are then hammered into these grooves. The object is then smoothened again, followed by buffing and finally it is oxidised using the soil and ammonium chloride solution. This solution selectively darkens the object with no effect on the silver inlay. The solution is then washed and the silver design shines against the black surface. Finally, oil is applied to give lustre to the object. The artisans create beautiful designs like flowers, leaves, geometric patterns, Persian roses, and even passages from the Holy Quran in Arabic script, etc.
Bidriware is one of the most important and highly-priced handicraft export items across the world. A unique symbol of wealth, the art of silver engraved on black metal has always fascinated people. Beautifully crafted by hand, these artefacts are perfect interior-decorating items for home and office décor. Bidriware is used for making paan daans, ashtrays, hookahs, vases, bowls, ornament boxes, trays, jewellery items and other decorative and utility items. The best part of this artefact is that it is very easy to clean and maintain. Simply wipe it with a cloth dipped in water to remove the dirt and dust. Thereafter apply some oil to the piece to maintain its original sheen.
Despite being globally appreciated and admired, this indigenous handicraft is heading towards a major decline. The rising cost of silver and other metals, availability of fake products in the market, age-old techniques used and lack of availability of Bidar Fort’s soil are some of the factors that have forced the artists not to carry the legacy of making Bidriware forward. They feel despite the laborious efforts involved, the art is not paying them well to maintain the status and respect that Bidri artists used to enjoy earlier.
In order to protect and preserve it, Bidri craft has been given the Geographical Indication (GI) registration by the Government of India in the year 2006. Further, due to the efforts of organisations like The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and Karnataka State Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited, this metal artefact is on the revival path. The effort was quite evident from the tableau of Karnataka during the Republic Day parade in 2011 in New Delhi which featured Bidriware and Bidri artisans. Giving due acknowledgement to the efforts and hard work of these craftsmen, this ultimate symbol of aristocracy, prosperity and luxury will surely survive and thrive.