Crafts of Assam bear the rich cultural heritage of the state. It brings out the artistic calibre of the people living in the state. Assam first came to recognition by the virtue of its exemplary silk quality and its products, and cane and bamboo items. People of Assam have always been master in these two arts, but with time many more scintillating handicraft forms emerged in Assam like metal crafts, pottery, woodcrafts and many more. No less exquisite are cane and bamboo products, silver, bell metal and brass craft, toy and mask making, traditional jewellery, woodcraft, pottery and terracotta works.
Weaving and Embroidery Crafts of Assam
Weaving and embroidery are the primary crafts of the state, which have carried on for generations. Cotton, Muga silk, Paat silk, Eri silk are some of the well known fabrics of the state which are used for weaving. Sarees, shawls, jackets are common products. The main handloom weaving districts of Assam are the Cachar district and Sualkuchi. Seats, mats and cushions are made with fibre in Bhatadrava of Nagaon district and Gauripur of Dhubri district.
Cane and Bamboo Crafts of Assam
Cane and bamboo products are other crafts of the state. The Assamese people are known for making beautiful furniture and roof tiles with canes. Other things made out of bamboo includes, sieve, beer mug, winnowing pan, water pot, small baskets and hats. The Sitalpati mats are crafted out of reeds and are also excellent handicrafts. Cachar and Tezpur are the hubs of cane and bamboo craft but Guwahati has many government-run and private outlets to choose from.
Brass and Bell Metal Crafts of Assam
Brass and bell metal crafts are mainly produced in Hajo and Sarthebari in Kamrup district of Assam. The main products created here are "Kalah" (water pot), "Sarai", "Kahi" (dish) "Bati" (bowl), "Lota" and "Tal" (cymbals). A Sarai is a shallow bowl on a stand with a dome-like cover and it is used in Assamese rituals. The Sarai showcases Assamese culture of hospitality, often offered to guests. The Kalah is a designed pitcher which has attractive motifs engraved on them.
Traditional Jewellery of Assam
The jewellery of Assam speaks volume of the fine craftsmanship of the people of Assam. The most exclusive jewellery pieces are the bangles, which are a combination of clay and lacquer work. It is decorated in pure lac and laid in narrow strips of red, yellow and blue.
Wood Crafts of Assam
The woodwork of Assam is also an outstanding example of a craft. It is unusual in style. A special type of a wooden house is the "Namghar" or "Kirtanghar", which contains a throne in the shape of a peacock and are raised in tiers from 3 to 9 and are supported by lions, elephants and tortoises. The walls also contain elaborate carvings. The painted woodwork of Golaghat speaks of the folk art of the state.
Other Crafts of Assam
Clay utensils were extensively used in Assam. Exquisite woodcarvings are a traditional handicraft of the state. The terracotta works of Assam are unique and have a design of their own. Gauripur is an important place for terracotta products.
