This New Year as you set off on your quest to discover India, don’t forget to visit the local handicraft market and buy some souvenirs. Agreed that souvenir hunting is difficult and much more for men(ha!!), but to top it all is the fact that India is literally an art haven. Any tourist can be spoilt for choice here, but if you keep utility in mind you can get really imaginative with these gifts too. So, let us show you what makes the most curious gifting ideas with a promise that there is something for everyone!!

1. Appliqué Work Lamp- Orissa

The streets of Pipli, a small town that is just 36km from Puri, are usually full of bright hues. Appliqué’ work is the forte of this town and used to embellish a range of things like umbrellas, animal puppets, wall hangings, bags, pouches, cushion covers and lanterns. So play with colors and pick up some vibrant appliqué work lamps and wall hangings.

2. Kathakali Mask- Kerala

One of the most popular dance forms in Kerala, Kathakali holds a huge significance in the history and tradition of Kerala. Apart from the dance Kathakali is also recognized for its unique form of make-up and attire. Kathakali masks are mirror images the face of a Kathakali dancer, replete with the colors and make up that are applied on the artist’s face. They make for a good way to remember your sojourn to the placid back waters.

3. Blue pottery- Jaipur

If you are in the pink city, the occasional shop or two of the ancient Turkish blue pottery will certainly make your head turn. Though Turko-Persian in origin, the art is now widely recognized as a traditional craft of Jaipur. The name ‘blue pottery’ comes from the eye-catching blue dye used to color the pottery. The items include decorative curios, such as ashtrays, vases, coasters, small bowls and cutlery etc. They make great gifts as well.

4. Ethnic Jewellery- Assam

You only have to set your eyes on the amazing range of ethnic jewellery from this region and you would already be drooling. The exquisite Lokaparo, Golpata, Satsori, Gejera, Dhol biri, Doog doogi, Magardana and other diversified designs only go on to talk about the excellent craftsmanship of the artisans here. Sure these accessories don’t come cheap but even a trinket bought can be passed off as a family heirloom later!

5. Glass work door hanging- Gujarat

Before events like ‘Pravasi Bhartiya Divas’ garnered the world’s attention on Gujarat, the local handicraft was already making ripples globally. Gujarati women are extremely deft with intricate needlework and their creativity is really at its best in the villages of Saurashtra and Kutch. In this form of art, glass pellets are used for embellishing anything from pillows to bedcovers to clothes to a range of accessories. But we feel it’s the torans and door hangings which look really unique and stand out in the crowd.

6. Folding Hand Fans – Sikkim

 

Sikkim is a potboiler of many races like Lepchas, Bhutanese, and Nepalese and you would often find the art and culture an amalgamation of the same. Almost everything created by the artisans here has a deep spiritual connotation to it. These objects of art and craft are not only known for their aesthetic and artistic value but are also functional to the core. A hand painted Chinese fan would not only look great on the bookshelf but also bring you relief from the heat when you step outside next time.

7. Samovars- Kashmir

Though Russian in origin, today samovars have become a household essential in the valley. The Kashmiri’s really love their Kehwa and this cleverly crafted copper pot is used for both brewing and serving this delicious drink. Because Samovars are available in both plain and engraved work, the prices vary but you can surely pick up one that suits your budget.

8. Mojari Jutti- Patiala,Punjab

Before the ballet flats and Jimmy Choo’s of the world even existed, the Indian Royals knew how to roll in style. The Punjabi jutti is famous for their multi color threadwork sometimes even embellished with zari and what not. These feisty jutti’s won’t take much space in your luggage and will definitely perk up the staid denim and T-shirt look.

9. Chang - Nagaland

These traditional shawls are more than just shawls to a Naga. A land of warriors and traditions, a Chang/Shawl holds immense importance in the local customs. The patterns drawn can tell you about a man’s rank in the tribe or recite a famous folklore. While men drape them over their shoulders, the women are found wrapping them around as skirts. When a Konyak woman gets married she wears a shatni shawl which is preserved and used later only to wrap her dead body. So the next time you’re in the gorgeous locales of Nagaland, find a gorgeous Chang to cherish that memory forever.

The list is probably endless, as anything that catches your eye and imagination can make for a good souvenir. After all that’s what they are supposed to do, remind you of a place or a memory that holds a special place in your heart. Sometimes it’s the prayer flag that the monk gave you as a blessing, or sometimes that shiny stone that you found on the riverbed; the incense sticks that you picked up from Auroville or the conch lamp you nicked from your hotel in Rameshwaram. The thing with interesting souvenirs is that they don’t always come with a price tag.

Shubhra

After spending almost 3 years creating buzz around brands, I decided to quit the world of PR and pursue my true calling which was all about traveling and yoga. If not planning my next trip then I could be found cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Though born and raised in the hillside town of Dehradun I am a beach bum at heart.

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