The state of Uttar Pradesh has long been regarded for its fantastic artisanal richness in its arts and crafts heritage landscape. Across the length and breadth of the state, its village communities have played a significant role in preserving these ancestral skills and traditions.
The city of Agra is one of its principal tourist destinations and is a treasure trove of this amazing legacy. From marble carving to inlay work, from zardozi embroideries to dhuree weaving, from glass bangles to leather works, there is a cornucopia of antique traditions that delights the visitors browsing through Agra’s many traditional markets and modern-day bazaars. An important role in keeping these traditions alive were the ateliers of the royals and nobility and the temples, which extended their patronage to these master craftsmen.
Both utilitarian and decorative crafts have made their mark in Agra’s rich, but time-consuming centuries-old handcrafting traditions. But a constant challenge has been to safeguard these traditions in the face of the burgeoning demand for speedier turnout to keep buyers happy.
Zardozi Embroidery
Zardozi is said to have been first introduced in India in the Delhi Sultanate period by the Turko-Afghan Sultans. The city of Agra became adept at producing some of the finest handiwork of this delicate embroidery in silver and gold thread.
A good place to explore these traditions is Kinari Bazaar, a glittering world of starry salma-sitara sequin work and the most exquisite renditions of zardozi embroidery. From accent pieces like saree borders to gorgeous sarees, stoles and kurta-pyjama sets, bridal wear — as well as male attire, including richly embroidered sherwanis, turbans and shawls, Agra zardozi has an assured place on the shopper's wish list.
To complement the rich pickings of the glittering embroideries of this dizzy tinsel world, Kinari Bazaar also has a shopload of jewellers selling stunning jadau sets, pendants, rings, bangles and neckpieces.
What is even more alluring about Kinari Bazaar is when you lose your way amidst its crowded aisles and squiggly lanes, you’ll also discover a treasure trove of marble sculptures, glassware, handmade leather items, textiles et al.
Marble Sculpting and Inlay work
The Taj Mahal serves as a prime example of Agra’s shining artisanal legacy.
Agra has an illustrious tradition of marble carving and exquisite inlay pietra dura, amply reflected by the superb artisanal works in the Taj Mahal. The Agra Marble Emporium near Kinari Bazaar offers stunning items showcasing Agra’s enduring skill in marble works. Subhash Emporium has also staked its reputation on its quality marble carving and sculpting. JK Cottage Industries is another place that comes well recommended.
Stock up on coasters, lamps, tabletops and statues, all crafted by highly skilled artisans. Paying too much? Not at all!
Don’t crib! The artisan deserves his skill at handcrafting to be respected and valued for every passing moment he spends bent over each piece, working on it with painstaking patience!
The exquisite marble inlay work with semi-precious stones is one of Agra’s most significant ancestral crafting traditions. Take home mementoes of your visit in the form of beautifully carved boxes, miniature replicas of the Taj, coasters, marble vases, ashtrays, and the like. Shops and emporia (such as UPICA on MG Road) across town, primarily in the tourist spots, are well stocked with an array of decently priced items. Marble Cottage at Kans Gate, Gokulpura, is another excellent outlet worthy of an explore. Check out the marble inlay work, stone sculptures and array of souvenirs.
Carpets and Floor Coverings
Almost 90 per cent of India’s carpets and dhurrie requirements for both the domestic and export market are met by Uttar Pradesh. Agra from the early days of the Mughal period has been a significant contributor to this market. It imbibed richly from the Mughals' love of Persian art and culture. Under their royal patronage, Agra’s weavers became past masters at creating those fantastic Mughal carpets.
An important weaving centre Agra has been skilled in producing designs from the olden days as well as present-day favourites. Not only were they excellent weavers, they had also mastered the art of vegetable dyes and came up with an exciting new colour palette. In the 19th century, Agra was still producing its iconic Persian-style carpets. You can shop here for Orientals such as the Indo-Isfahan and Indo-Kashan carpets. A good place to check out these traditions is Fatehabad Road where Kalra’s Cottage Industry is located. Gwalior Road is another spot where you can suss out the array of handloom products and carpets.
While Agra is reputed for handmade and hand-knotted carpets in silk, cotton, and wool, you might want to explore the market with a knowledgeable companion for a more immersive experience.
Leather wear
Long reputed for its leather goods, Agra is a hot spot for jackets, bags, shoes, slippers, belts, wallets, and the like. Step up to the Shoe Bazaar near Hing ki Mandi and abandon caution to the winds as you plunge into an explore of the range of goods on offer. Kinari Bazaar also houses some leather goods stores worth checking out.
Sadar Bazaar
Located close to Tajganj, this popular traditional market is a shopper’s haven for residents, given that it stocks a fantastic array of utilitarian and decorative items. From handicrafts to leather goods to apparel—it’s your go-to-market in town.
Shilpgram
This crafts village offers a showcase of many of Agra’s and Uttar Pradesh’s traditional arts and crafts. You can watch artisans at work, be it pottery, weaving, or marble inlay, and buy what you fancy directly from them.