Shilpgram (“village of artisans”) is a rural craft complex, located three kilometers from Udaipur and set up by the government in 1986 AD. It is situated near a Rajasthani village known as Havala. The design and architectural plan of Shilpgram was completed back in 1989 AD and was inaugurated by Rajiv Gandhi, the then Prime Minister of India. Shilpgram can easily be considered as an amalgam of museum and marketing platform which preserves and depicts the lifestyle of rural and folk culture of various regions of Rajasthan. Basically Shilpgram is an effort to increase the awareness about prevailing arts and crafts of Rajasthan at a wider range. This village exhibits the crafts of
Rajasthan,
Gujarat,
Goa and
Maharashtra, in a very pleasant setting. Many dance shows and concerts are organized throughout the year.
Shilpgram in Udaipur represents heritage of each state of western India. Each state of West Zone of India has huts in Shilpgram. The complex has houses from each of the states, incorporating their distinctive architectural features. There are total twenty six huts. There are five huts representing Rajasthan, seven huts representing Gujarat, five huts representing Maharashtra and five huts representing Goa. The huts are created in old architectural style of villages to give a feel of rural culture of India with the decorations which includes the artistic elements. Huts are made of mud, bamboo, dry grass, and many other elements which were followed to make home during olden times in the villages. Bamboos are often used to provide support to roof and mud is used to make the walls and floor of the huts. The walls are decorated with colorful designs, generally put in the borders of the walls.
Cluster of huts represents a particular state. There are many ways to make a hut and on the basis of the tradition of different states, the formation of the huts is done in a particular style related to respective state. For example, the cluster of huts representing Goa depicts the arts, designs and architectural styles of the houses of the fishermen and potters. These huts / houses are made of mainly using grass and cane. The huts of Rajasthan represent weaver community of Marwar, pottery makers of Mewar and former communities of Bhil area. An amphitheater in Shilpgram provides a good venue for different events and festivals organized there. The sitting capacity of this amphitheater is almost of eight thousand. Horse and camel rides are also available in the Shilpgram.
The complex comes to life during the ten days of Shilpgram Arts & Crafts Fair in late December. Shilpgram Festival is celebrated at large level. The festival is organized every year in from 21stto 31st December. There are various stalls of art and craft including embroidery, pottery and many other forms. These handicraft products are showcased to sell. This is a platform not only for the artist but also for those who want to learn a form of art. Several workshops are held to provide an opportunity to learn various aspects of arts, crafts and the lifestyles of the artisans. Anyone can participate in those workshops. Different kinds of cultural programs comprising singing and dancing are arranged where one can enjoy the rich heritage while listening melodious folk songs, watching rhythmic folk dances and participating in these cultural activities with the artists. Various games prevalent in hinterland are arranged and played. Food stalls serving a variety of local authentic cuisines are also found there.
Different kind of art exhibitions are held there. One can interact with artisans like weavers, blacksmiths, carpenter and many more. If one loves to hear stories, one can ask their journey of being artisans and aspects related to their arts.
Here different artists from rural and urban areas come together to interact through camps and workshops. Household articles made of wood and metals, hand-woven articles, agricultural tools, craftsmen objects, different kind of articles used in daily life and decoration are sold there. Not only the craftsmen from the hinterland but also the people from the cities gather here to exhibit their arts & crafts.
How to Reach Shilpgram: Maharana Pratap airport is almost 24 km away from Shilpgram. And from airport one can hire an auto or cab for Shilpgram. If you are going by train, Shilpgram is at a distance of about 3 km from Udaipur railway station. And here too, you can take auto or cab. Ola and Uber cabs provide their good services in Udaipur.
Nearby Attractions: You can also visit Lok Kala Mandal which is close to Shilpgram. The Lok Kala Mandal is a place where you can enjoy folk music and folk dances. Sajjangarh Palace, also known as Monsoon Palace, is situated close to Shilpgram at a distance of 4 km. Lake Fateh Sagar, 7 km from Shilpgram, is also a good option for nature lovers. Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary is also at a distance of 20 km.
Best Time to Visit Shilpgram: Shilpgram can be visited in any month but the best time to visit is during Shilpgram Festival that is held in December. Especially if you have a keen interest in art and craft, you should plan before to dedicate a good amount of time to Shilpgram so that you can visit it properly. If you wish to explore different cultures, traditions and diversity of art and craft, Shilpgram will be a memorable addition in your travelling list.