Bidri Art – Timeless craft etched in the history of India in Silver and black

Introduction

Indian handicrafts have been passed down through generations, representing the cultural heritage of various regions in India. Each piece holds cultural significance, telling a unique story of the community's traditions and artistic expressions. One such art form is Bidri, which was introduced in the 14th-15th century in Bidar, Karnataka. It originated from Persia but was brought to India by artists during the reign of Sultan Ahmad Shah Bahmani. Bidri Art, also known as Bidriware handicraft, resembles a night sky and is often used for decorative purposes in homes and offices. Bidri art is handcrafted using Silver, zinc, copper and gold. Bidri metalwork from Karnataka exemplifies unparalleled craftsmanship and intricate design, which has won the hearts of numerous enthusiasts of handicrafts worldwide.

Origin of Bidri art

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Bidriware originated around the 14th century and flourished under the Bahmani sultanate of Bidar in Karnataka. As the legend states, Abdullah Bin Kaiser was a Persian craftsman who brought Bidri art to India. Kaiser visited India to pay respect to Sultan Ahmad Shah Wali. Another version states that Kaiser met a local goldsmith, and their joint efforts led to the rise of Bidri craft. Bidri metalwork from Karnataka evolved over the years, influenced by Persian, Deccan, and Mughal art forms, which contributed to the rise of this distinctive art form. Bidriware was popularized during the Bahmani period when it was used to decorate palaces, everyday items and ceremonial objects. Bidri is associated with royalty, so this art form has attained high status, becoming a symbol of artistic excellence, prestige, and wealth.

How is Bidriware handicraft made?

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Crafts of Bidar, Karnataka, involve the process of ornamentation, where gold, copper, or silver metal is used for intricate designs. It is a labour-intensive process which demands an excellent level of expertise and accuracy.

• Production of alloy –  First, Zinc and Copper are combined and then melted to develop a blackened alloy, which is exclusively used to make Bidri art. The ratio of Copper to Zinc is adjusted according to the characteristics of the finished products.
• Casting –  In this process, molten alloy is poured into the mould to shape the product. As soon as the alloy is set, this item is extracted from the mould. A particular piece of equipment is used to make patterns and motifs that are delicately carved on the object. A stylus is used to trace the design of the object before it is cut with tools or chisels to create the required pattern. After finishing the engraving, Silver or brass wire is delicately hammered into the design. That is how the inlay stands out from the carved pattern. 
• Oxidizing— Later, the carved object is submerged in an ammonium chloride solution and water, exposing the alloy to zinc and causing it to turn black through oxidation. The Silver, Gold or Brass that was inlaid remains bright, giving it a striking contrast to its black backdrop. The final stage in this process involves polishing the item in a solution of coconut ash and oil, which brings out the lustre and brightness of the inlaid metal.

Bidri art is a complex design that requires meticulous detailing by skilled artisans, who spend hours or days completing each product.

Challenges of Bidriware handicraft and its revival

Bidri art is a revered craft form with historical and cultural significance in Karnataka. Despite its timeless appeal and rich heritage, Bidri art faces many challenges today. These challenges have threatened the survival of this traditional art form. Various revival efforts are being made to ensure this art form continues to thrive in contemporary art.

• Declining demand – There is a decline in demand for high-quality handcrafted products. Today's environment is fast-paced due to mass production cheaper products are available in the market. Mass-produced goods are made through an automated process, so it becomes difficult for Bidri Craft to compete based on price. Mass-produced products are neither durable nor unique and they dominate the marketplace, which results in reduced demand for handcrafted items like Bidri that require time and skilled craftsmanship.
• Growing cost of materials— The price of Silver is increasing daily, posing a challenge to the production of Bidri art. Silver is an integral component of the Bidri craft, which inevitably increases the product's cost. It becomes difficult for artisans to produce Bidri products at cheaper prices. High production costs and low sales discourage Birdi artists for leaving this craft and pursuing more profitable options.
• Lack of awareness – There is a notable lack of awareness among the public regarding the historical significance of Bidri art. The public often overlooks these traditional art forms, which require skilled artistry for their production. As people are unaware of the art so, there is less appreciation, which results in lower customer demand. It is essential to raise awareness about the Bidri craft to boost sales of its products.
• Artisan attrition – There is instability in the Handicraft market, and the young generation is looking for financial stability. This is contributing to increased attrition among artisans due to the uncertain earnings in this market. Due to this, older generations are unable to pass on this unique craftsmanship to younger generations, resulting in a decreased availability of skilled artists in the market.

Revival efforts

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Despite numerous challenges, efforts are being made to sustain and revive Bidri art, ensuring it doesn't become a forgotten art form. We need to preserve our roots and traditions, so the Karnataka state government is developing initiatives to uplift this art form. Various marketing strategies and community-based interventions are being implemented to sustain this art form globally.

Government initiatives - The Indian government is working to promote traditional Handicrafts, including Bidri, globally. The government is not only providing training but also financial support to local artisans, enabling them to continue this craft. Development Commissioner Handicrafts, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Handicraft Development Corporation, is working to revive Bidri through skill development programs and workshops, thereby enhancing the quality of Bidri's work. The government provides financial assistance to artisans, enabling them to obtain initial raw materials and subsequently help them sell their products on the global market.

Design innovation and intervention – The world today has changed, making it increasingly necessary to make Bidri art more appealing to new-age customers. Various design institutes and NGOs are collaborating to develop contemporary designs in line with new trends. New-age products such as Kumkum boxes, card holders, pen stands, tea coasters and paperweights are being made.

E-commerce Platforms – Now, people are selling Bidri products on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho and other places. This has significantly increased the reach of Bidri products to new audiences and consumers. These platforms have become a great place for showcasing the talent of Bidri artists.

GI (Geographical Indication) tag – A Geographical Indication tag ensures the authenticity of the product and also lends credibility to an art form. GI tags help protect products from counterfeiting through legal protection, as they create a link between products and their geographic origin. It prevents people from misusing the brand or region name, safeguarding the quality and reputation of the product. Bidri has become a luxurious product through the GI tag, helping to boost the earnings of artisans as they can now receive higher prices for their art. Indian GI-tagged handicrafts have boosted awareness of the product worldwide, which has helped increase the sales of Bidri products.

Conclusion

Bidri Art is a testament to India's cultural heritage, showcasing the artistic prowess and craftsmanship of its artists. Bidar has gained worldwide recognition due to its intricate metalwork and the interest it sparks among people. It takes a lot of time to create Bidri pieces, from casting to inlaying and oxidizing, that reflect the skill of an artist. Bidri has now spread from Karnataka to Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Maharashtra. Bidri has won a UNESCO award for excellence in handicrafts, which has elevated its state in the world. Endorsements from celebrities such as Amitabh Bachchan and former president Barack Obama have helped enhance awareness of Bidar craft. Natriel has a variety of Bidri products acquired from artisans of Karnataka.

Bidri Product on Natriel

Bidri products can be used to elevate home décor due to its striking visual contrast of silver inlay on deep black metal surface. Bidri products have unique aesthetic which makes them a memorable gift on varied occasions.