Wood Carving of Saharanpur

Introduction

Saharanpur, also referred to as the "sheesham wood village," is renowned for its skilled wood carvers, who receive accolades for their creative prowess worldwide. These artisans, who describe their work as "breathing life into dead trees," have honed their trade for generations. The region is particularly famous for its intricate vine-leaf designs, as well as exquisite brass inlay work. Geometric and figure carvings are also common. Artists are fusing wood with materials like glass, ceramic, and wrought iron to give classic works of art a contemporary feel and offer this ancient craft new dimensions.

Palace

Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh is named for the Sufi saint Shah Harun Chisti, who lived in the 13th century. Thanks to its fertile farmland that yields a wealth of fruits and grains, the city has become one of the most prosperous in the state. Wood from the surrounding woods is used extensively in Saharanpur's well-known woodcraft industry, which contributes significantly to India's exports.

Despite its modernity, Saharanpur's nostalgic attraction lingers. Its streets are lined with electric poles, its roads are dotted with happy animals, and the sound of namaaz reverberates from neighboring mosques. Residents smoking hookah, roadside candy vendors, and pedal rickshaws all contribute to the city's unique vibe. In the "Lakkad Bazaar" (wood market) and other communities like Sarai Mardan Ali and Khajoor Tala, artisans are regularly spotted crafting intricate wooden products and continuing the city's rich woodworking heritage.

An overview of the process

Different wood varieties are utilized for different products. For example, teakwood is used for furniture, mango wood is used for antiques, and sheesham is used for little items. Slicing, carving, inlaying, sanding, polishing, and assembling are the fundamental procedures that all adhere to. Each work is the result of collaboration between craftsmen who specialize in one or more of these areas.

Cutting

The first step in woodworking, called "lakdi cheerna," involves cutting logs into flat slabs with an electric saw. Two guys typically hold the wood securely throughout this process to ensure accuracy and safety while cutting. Each slab is then painstakingly pencil-marked, allowing artisans to draw out various shapes and sizes suitable for the final product, be it furniture, décor, or smaller items. These slabs are then assigned to skilled carvers who will begin the complex process of turning the concept into a reality. The initial slicing establishes the shape and size needed for the next crafting operations, laying the groundwork for the finished object.

Making a carving

For geometric designs, carving can be done by hand or with an electric saw. Prior to being transferred to wood, patterns are initially sketched on paper. Intricate details are crafted with basic tools like saws and chisels, frequently with the help of young family members.

Inlaying

To produce geometric or floral motifs inlaid into wood, metal strips consisting of brass, bone, or plastic are pressed into pre-formed grooves and secured with adhesive and nails. For strength or aesthetic appeal, wrought iron is employed in certain products.

Polishing

The item is smoothed, puttied, and then sanded one more after being sanded and buffing—often without masks for protection. After that, it is painted or polished, and for special orders, gold finishes are added.

Putting together

Hinges, rivets, and other parts must be attached in the last phase to complete the product and get it ready for packaging and sale.

Products

Candle holders, screens, room dividers, tableware (bowls, trays, cooking spatulas, etc.), boxes, mirror frames, book shelves, pen stands, children's toys, and decorative furniture (sofa sets, chairs, tables, stools, wall brackets, closets, etc.) are all included in the "typical" product line. In addition to this, the artisans are experimenting with newer goods and materials daily in order to develop new product categories.