The carpet industry is flourishing in India since 15th century when Mughal dynasty gave birth to this art form. Persian and Turkish weavers were brought to India to weave carpets for royal Palaces. With the support of Mughals, carpet weaving centres were established in different parts of India. They felicitated production of Persian styled carpets. The Persian style carpets were inspired by designs of Kashan, heart and Kirman. Not only the Persian technique of carpet weaving was used but also designs were inspired by their traditional motifs. The art of carpet weaving grew and flourished in India which was lately modified and mixed with several Indian art.Carpet weaving Industry then spread to the whole Indian sub-continent, with each area having its own specialty.
Carpet weaving is an ancient tradition that has been followed from one generation to other. Today the artisans from Rajasthan, Kashmir, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh are weaving world’s best carpets. 5% to 80% of carpets manufactures in India are exported around the world. The Indian weavers are renowned for their magnificent designs, meticulous detailing, elegance, attractive colours and workmanship.
The Royal touch
Since the very beginning, carpet manufacturers in India have been using silk and wool as the essential material in weaving carpets. Different kinds of wool are used based on the location that where the carpet is getting weaved. Thereby, carpets from various location has their own story to tell. Material like Pashmina is also used to get the superior quality of carpets with greater number of knots. The use of fine silk and Pashmina gave the velvety look to the carpet. Patterns on the Indian carpets resembled miniature scenes and paintings. The artisans and weavers work together to give technically refined taste in design and construction. The carpets may have scrolling vines, flowering plants, animal figurines and designs inspired by nature. This may include rivers, sea, ocean, hills and mountains. Chinese and European patters also influenced the designs on the carpet in their own way. You can also find the impact of calligraphy in this art form. But flowers are still primary element of designing in today’s carpets. With geometric and calligraphic borders, you may find numerous colours and designs with floral print. Variety of colour schemes are used that has multiple shades of blue, green, red and peach. More attractive and bold colours are used these days to give vibrant effect on designs.
The legacy continues
The carpet industry is flourishing day by day in India. As the carpets manufactured here are of world class quality with magnificent design and impeccable work man ship. Worldwide there is a huge market demand for hand-knotted woolen carpets, tufted woolen carpets, chain stitch rugs, pure silk carpets, staple carpets, synthetic carpets and handmade woolen durries. There has been remarkable expansion in carpet manufacturing companies in India. Skill development and training programs are introducing this magnificent art form to younger generation. And the young guns are shouldering this responsibility with pride.