From the Land of the Rajas: Creativity in Rajasthan

From the Land of the Rajas:

Creativity in Rajasthan

Shoes

In Rajasthan, men, women, and children wear shoes of colored and embroidered leathers. Called juttis and mojaris, they were introduced to India in the early 16th century by the Mughals. They are still most popular in central and northern India, the traditional regions of Mughal power. As working with leather is considered “unclean” by Hindus, its craftsmen are among the lowest castes; the Chamar caste for tanning and the Mochi caste for cobbling. Men often make the shoes with buffalo, camel, or cow leather soles, with leather or cloth uppers; while women decorate them with embroidery (kashida) and appliqué.

Juttis—which can vary according to region, period, and shoemaker—may also differ based on local materials and environments. Juttis are made identically, with no distinction for right or left; however, their soft leather comes to fit the feet when worn. These decorated shoes were probably worn by men in more urban areas.

Shoe store
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, Jodhpur, 2005–06

(L and R) Shoe repairer
Photo by Shalini Ayyagari, Jodhpur, 2005–06

Puppets

Henna prints

Religious Paintings