Beadwork

Beadwork – A craft older than history 

Calling beadwork crafts the representatives of our world’s cultural history would not be inaccurate. Many antique, treasured beadwork necklaces, bangles and decorative items, pre-date modern history by thousands of years. Beads made from sea shells, semi-precious stones, glass and metal are believed to have held eminence in diverse regions during different time periods. While closely intertwined with prevailing cultural practices and community belief systems, and often defining social stature, beaded ornaments have also served as a means of artistic expression for women and their empowerment. 

In India, the craft has thrived in varied forms, with each practicing tribe, artisan group or cluster adding their own unique element. Most of these are helmed by women, who make jewellery pieces and home décor items by stringing together colourful beads in myriad of patterns. Some of the popular beadwork clusters of India are located in Madhya Pradesh, the North Eastern states, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh. While the Moti Bharat beadwork of Gujarat is well known, the beadwork from Varanasi, UP and items by Aagaz, a women artisan group from Hapur, UP have also garnered much praise and admiration. From celebrating Diwali festivities to weddings, beadwork articles can be found gracing all occasions.