Development of Art and Craft Village in Bangalore, Karnataka
GOVERNMENT OF KARNATAKA INITIATIVE
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to work at. They are paid on piece rate basis, and also receive Provident Fund, bonus
and subsidized ration benefits.
3.2.7 OTHERS - BRONZE CRAFTS, CANE, COIR
Bronze craft is mainly pursued at Bangalore, Nagamangala, Udupi, Shivarpatna,
Mysore, Belgaum and Hubli. The raw materials used are of Copper and Brass. The
motifs are taken from temple friezes, images of Gods like Ardhnarishwara, Nataraja,
Buddha, Krishna, Deppalakshmi, etc. The motifs are cast in the mould prepared by
craftsmen, then carved meticulously and polished to give a fine finish.
Artisans also produce other items like Ganapthi and Ganapathi Nandi miniature
images. The concept for the art work is derived from the South Indian temples. The
bronze craft is also utilized in making brass and copper utensils, door handles, bowls,
vases, idols for temples, and other figurines in the temples. KSHDC conducts craft
exposure study tours to visit places like Dakshina Kannada, Mysore, Shivarpatna,
Bellary, Hospet (Hampi), Badami, Ajantha, Ellora, Belur, Halebeedu, Shravanabelagola,
etc. to view the most exquisite monuments so that they derive ideas/ designs for
bronze craft.
Metal works in Karnataka is not confined to any particular area or city. While some
regions are famous for bronze casting, others are known for bell metal works. Metal
work industry is significantly practiced in the State as numerous families are involved
actively in it. Many articles for religious purposes are made of metal. Karkala, famous
for Jain statues and Udupi are the major centers for such works. Mangalore is famous
for the bell metal works and Nagamangala is famous for bronze casting. Most
attractive pieces of bronze work are the human figures made out of it. Other
handicrafts include handicrafts made of coir, cane and banana plantain.