Likhai

Likhai (Hindi for 'writing') refers to the ancient woodcarving tradition of Uttarakhand, a North Indian mountain state.^[1] Given the rapid urbanization in the region and migration of artisans to larger cities for more lucrative jobs, the craft is said to be on the verge of "vanishing".^[2]

History and practice

There are no texts recording the history of the craft, and the skills and knowledge are passed down practically through apprenticeships.^[3] The motifs carved on windows, pillars or doorframes include: local flora and fauna, folklores, religious symbols, geometric patterns.

References

^ Nanduri, Nikhila (2018). "Graphic narratives from the hills: a wood-carving tradition in Uttarakhand, India". Oral History. 46 (2): 97–108 – via JSTOR.
^ Irani, Gustasp & Jeroo (June 10, 2017). "Ganga Ram is the last surviving master craftsman of Kumaon's fading Likhai woodwork tradition" – via www.thehindu.com.
^ "The Disappearing Craft of Likhai" – via Outlook Traveller.

[1] Nanduri, Nikhila (2018). "Graphic narratives from the hills: a wood-carving tradition in Uttarakhand, India". Oral History. 46 (2): 97–108 – via JSTOR.

[2] Irani, Gustasp & Jeroo (June 10, 2017). "Ganga Ram is the last surviving master craftsman of Kumaon's fading Likhai woodwork tradition" – via www.thehindu.com.

[3] "The Disappearing Craft of Likhai" – via Outlook Traveller.

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