High Demand for Varanasi's Wooden Crafts: Exported to the US and Brazil for the Holiday Season
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Varanasi, Dec 19 (NationPress) The city's traditional wooden craft industry is reaching new heights in terms of demand and popularity. Significant shipments of wooden toys and decorative items are being exported to countries such as the United States, Brazil, and more for the festive season.
The global interest in Varanasi’s handmade wooden toys and statues has dramatically increased over the past few years. Replicas of religious symbols associated with Shri Ram Temple and Kashi Vishwanath Dham have particularly captured the attention of Indians residing abroad.
The backing from the state government for local artisans has propelled this growth, providing them with enhanced access to international markets. Currently, the wooden toys produced in Varanasi are being shipped worldwide in preparation for Christmas festivities. Demand has been particularly robust from nations like Spain, Brazil, and the United States, with requests for approximately 10,000 hanging ornaments, which include items like Santa Claus, Christmas trees, stars, and angels.
These ornaments are crafted by a dedicated group of around 60 women artisans, contributing not only to the local economy but also creating job opportunities.
The increase in demand has resulted in a substantial rise in employment and has positioned Varanasi's traditional handicrafts at the forefront of global markets.
In an interview with IANS, Subhi Agarwal, a wooden toy maker in Varanasi, stated, “We’ve created wooden toys featuring five auspicious figures for hanging on Christmas trees and doors, which can also be gifted. Spain has placed a large order, which will be supplied to Brazil and the United States. We started production in September with a team of 70 people, and we’ve already fulfilled the order.”
Bihari Lal Agarwal, another wooden toy maker, shared insights on the increasing recognition of their craft, saying “In addition to producing wooden toys and religious statues, this Christmas, we have designed numerous wooden figures for international markets. We’ve also received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for our wooden crafts, marking a significant milestone for Varanasi.”
As the demand for Varanasi's wooden crafts continues to rise, the city’s artisans are not only safeguarding their rich cultural legacy but also making a significant impact on the global stage, showcasing the traditional art of woodcraft this Christmas season.
