Indian is every handicraft lover’s dream come true. Every region here has its own community of artisans who work relentlessly to produce beautiful handcrafted collectibles. With support from the government and some NGOs, these cottage industries have managed to keep the country’s brilliant crafts alive. Although you will find unique handicrafts in every part of the country, here’s a list of five places you must visit to get a first-hand account of how these pretty things are made.

Pipili – Orissa           

This nondescript town in the eastern state of Orissa is famous across the country for its applique work. Applique is a technique similar to patchwork and it involves patching together different patterns and fabric, one over the other. Combined with some mirror work and bright cheerful colours, these are used in home décor, furnishings such as bed covers, cushions, upholstery and in clothes too. In addition to Pipili, other towns in Orissa such as Cuttack and Tarva district, are famous for their white metal and silver art, apart from the Cuttack cotton sarees that are popular across India. Another famous art in this creatively-inclined state is Pattachitra painting, or the ancient art of painting stories from mythology on cloth.

Kanchipuram – Tamil Nadu

Home to the famous Kanchipuram saree, this town close to Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is where all the magic happens. Kanchipuram sarees are made of silk and real gold threads. They can be very expensive and their price depends on the quality and weight of silk, the workmanship involved, embroidery and so on. Which is why this saree is reserves for special occasions such as weddings. You can watch the weavers in action and even buy directly from them. Thanks to the Geographical Identification label bestowed on this craft by the government, Kanchipuram is officially where this trademarked saree can be produced.

Madhubani - Bihar

The history of Madhubani art dates back to the ancient kingdom of Mithila in present-day Bihar. Practised exclusively by women belonging to the Madhubani region in Bihar, this traditional art form adorned the walls of mud huts in villages much before it occupied pride of place in art galleries in the country. Madhubani paintings are mostly devotional in theme; they depict scenes from sacred texts and are inspired by nature. In the Madhubani region, it is common to find a number of artisans engrossed in making elaborate and colourful paintings in little shacks by the road. The art form itself is like an heirloom that is passed on from one generation to the next.

Jaipur – Rajasthan

Rajasthan is known for its vibrant art and craft culture – from colourful hand-block and vegetable dye prints to tie-and-dye techniques like Bandini, patchwork and mirrorwork. We’re sure we have missed out a few. However, one cool technique that Jaipur and parts of Rajasthan have quietly mastered over the years is blue pottery. Persian in origin with some Mongolian influences, this technique was promoted in Jaipur in the early 19th century and grew under the patronage of subsequent rulers. A blue dye is used on ceramic to create vivid patterns and hues on urns, jugs, door knobs, soap dispensers, plates and almost every perceivable household item!

Dhubri – Assam

There is a town called Asharikandi some 14km from Dhubri in the northeastern state of Assam which prides itself in making world-class terracotta products. Considered one of the largest terracotta and pottery clusters in the country. The talented craftsmen of the region make everything from pots, urns, to religious figurines, home décor and garden accessories out of terracotta. Besides, Assam and a few other northeastern states are also well-known for their cane and bamboo handicrafts, which are retailed across the world.

Check out Satara’s range of throws, rugs, cushions and chairpads that seek inspiration from the rich handicraft traditions of India.