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Rajasthan is the land of kings and steeped in a rich tradition of royalty. This vibrant state in northwestern India is famous for its cultural heritage, stunning architecture and warm hospitality. From the majestic forts and palaces of Jaipur to the serene lakes of Udaipur, Rajasthan is a treasure trove of delightful experiences. One of the most enjoyable aspects of a trip there is shopping for souvenirs; each district has its own unique identity, history and traditions, which are reflected in its handloom and handicraft products. From intricate jewellery and miniature paintings to colourful textiles and metalwork, Rajasthan offers a dazzling array of souvenirs that are ideal mementoes for your trip.
Here are some of the most unique and attractive souvenirs you can buy during your Rajasthan tour.
Rajasthani puppet art is called kathputli, a combination of two Rajasthani words where kath means "wood" and putli means "doll." Kathputli is a puppet made of wood, cotton cloth and metal wire. It is usually about two feet tall. These puppets and stuffed dolls are an integral part of the state's rich cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship. The puppets are adorned with colourful traditional costumes and jewellery and have distinctive facial features, such as large eyes, arched eyebrows and large lips. They are part of traditional puppetry performances that narrate history, myths and folklore to the tune of music.
Where to buy: You can purchase puppets in places like Sawai Madhopur, Bari and Udaipur.
Blue pottery is widely recognised as a traditional craft of Jaipur. The name comes from the attractive cobalt blue dye that is used to colour the pottery. The Persian ceramic style has strongly influenced the tradition but this Rajasthani tradition has since developed its own designs and motifs. Inspired primarily by nature, the pottery is richly decorated with animals, birds and flowers, and has a hint of Persian geometric design in its composition. Some of this pottery is semi-transparent and decorated with Islamic patterns, birds and other animal motifs. Clay is not used in the creation of the pottery; the "dough" is prepared by mixing quartz stone powder, stone powder, Multani mitti (fuller's earth), borax, gum and water.
Where to buy: You can purchase blue pottery products from local shops in Jaipur like Neerja International Inc and the Jaipur Blue Pottery Art Centre.
Rajasthan is traditionally known for its good quality hand-knotted woollen carpets. These beautiful products have gained worldwide recognition for being among the most durable of textiles and are firm yet flexible. The carpets are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and typically feature rosettes, geometric patterns, long serrated leaves, etc.
Where to buy: You can buy carpets from places like Jaipur, Ajmer and Bikaner because these are the main centres for these crafts.
Rajasthani miniature painting is a style of art that originated in the independent Hindu kingdoms of the region during the 16th-19th centuries. The primary colours used in them are red, blue and yellow as well as green, brown and white. Some paintings also contained gold and silver. The paintings feature abstracts and traditional conceptions of the human figure, as well as decorative depictions of the landscape. They depict various subjects like the weather, Ragamala music, hunting scenes, the love scenes of Radha and Krishna, and so on.
Where to buy: You can buy miniature paintings from places like Bundi, Jodhpur and Kota.
If you are going to visit Rajasthan, then you must buy clothes for your loved ones. The colourful clothes of the state are famous all over the world. From bandhani (tie-dye) to block printed fabrics and exquisitely embroidered garments, there is a vibrant range of clothing and accessories such as saris, dupattas and turbans for visitors to buy. Some examples of Rajasthan textile traditions are Bandhej, Bagru Print, Lehariya and so on.
Where to buy: You can buy Bagru printed fabrics from Sawai Madhopur, Alwar, Jhunjhunu and Sikar. Bandhej textiles are available in Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Nathdwara and Sikar. Lehariya can be purchased from Jodhpur and Jaipur.
Rajasthan is famous for its jewellery industry, and India is one of the world's largest centres for the hand-cutting of gems. The jewellery and gemstones of Rajasthan are a testament to the state's glorious past and its continued relevance in modern times, whether you are interested in traditional Kundan and Meenakari jewellery or rare gems.
Where to buy: You can purchase jewellery and gemstones from the world-famous gemstone market of Johari Bazaar in Jaipur.
Rajasthan's leather products are famous for their quality and craftsmanship. Jodhpuri mojaris (traditional shoes), bags, purses and belts are often decorated with intricate embroidery and beading, making them not only stylish but also durable and practical souvenirs.
Where to buy: You can purchase leather products mainly from Jodhpur and Jaipur.
