Revival of Punjab’s Traditional Handicraft:Phulkari

Handicrafts of a country showcases the rich cultural and artistic history of that nation. Phulkari Artisans and craftsmen make use of number of techniques combined with exquisite and vibrant designs to make the most intriguing artistic artifacts. Till early 19th century, the Phulkaris were produced for domestic consumption (within the family) only. It was only in later part of the 19th Century, in times of famines and hardships that the Phulkaries were put to sale and commercialization. It let to impressive time saving patterns adopted in cheaper material that destroyed the genuine spirit of Phulkari. By the turn of the 20th Century, Phulkari was virtually reduced to a lost art and has been under severe threat of extinction. Quality of products had deteriorated and this once beautiful craft form had become a caricature of itself. Lack of expertise and exploitation of the craftsperson's by middlemen, Inability to reach artisans and craftsman (physically and communication wise) has led to downfall of this traditional Handicraft. Fresh attempts have been made to revive the lost art of Phulkari as a cottage industry with the combined efforts of State and Central Government, NGO's, designers and entrepreneurs. The aim of this paper is to analyze different Phulkari Revival schemes designed to Promote and Preserve Punjab's Traditional Handicraft. In the new millennium, India is poised between past and future, tradition and technology and village haats are being supplanted by shopping malls. Nevertheless, craft still maintains its place, finding new avenues and opportunities.