 Bhadohi, a city 45 km to the west of Varanasi an – the culturally important cities with rich heritage, is the city most well-known for its hand-woven carpets. It is a city in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is home to the carpet manufacturers who export their products throughout the globe.
The carpets from the Mirzapur-Bhadohi region have received the ‘Geographical Indicator’ tag, which means the carpet manufactured in the nine districts of the region which include Bhadohi, Mirzapur, Varanasi, Ghazipur, Sonebhadra, Kaushambhi, Allahabad, Jaunpur, and Chandauli, are all tagged as handmade carpets of Bhadohi.
History of Carpet Making in Bhadohi:
It is believed that carpet making was introduced to this area during the early 16th century in Mughal Emperor Akbar’s reign. At the time, the trade between India and Persia was booming and the Mughal Emperors were known to be the connoisseurs of all things luxurious. So, they encouraged and incentivized the increase in local artisans in Bhadohi and surrounding regions.
Over the centuries, there was innovation in the industry with changes and inventions of different techniques, use of different materials and the major changes that came along with the industrial revolution of the 20th century by the introduction to machineries.
Though often the traditional methods are revered and still utilized in large scale, the introduction to machinery has made it easier to produce the finest carpets on a larger scale.
The Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, Bhadohi:
The Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, the only institute of its kind in Asia, is also located in the city of Bhadohi. Â Providing various courses in carpet and textile manufacturing and designing, Carpet yarn manufacturing, Carpet Technology, and many more regarding textile manufacturing; this Institute has managed to create and provide education for the growth and innovation in the industry.
It accepts about a hundred students every year. This institute was built to keep the tradition of carpet making alive throughout the coming generations while still respecting the long history of carpet making in the city.
The Local Impact of the Carpet Industry:
There are almost 3.2 million people employed as artisans due to the industry in Bhadohi. Increase in ethical practices and fair trade has made it easier for safe workspaces, fair wages, education and training opportunities, as well as opportunities for women in the workforce. It has also boosted the local economy.
Global Impact of the Carpet Industry:
Boasting the best quality durable carpets, the city is well accustomed to praise for their carpets all over the world all thanks to the skillful weavers. The environmental impact is also reduced significantly due to use of sustainable manufacturing techniques as well as eco-friendly materials.
How to Reach Bhadohi:
Bhadohi is not just a Carpet Making Hub but also has relevance to the Hindu culture as it is mentioned in the Hindu religious books of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Today, Bhadohi has become a crucial part of the Indian culture.
So, while travelling to Varanasi, visiting Bhadohi can give you a taste of that culture. The best way to reach Bhadohi, if travelling from a different country, is to get a flight to Varanasi and then book a cab to Bhadohi. And if you are travelling from within India the best ways to get there is by flight or train which you can decide according to your budget.
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In case you are curious to see how these beautiful and intricate Carpets are made for yourself, you can contact us at contact@carpestry.com or by visiting our website by clicking here.