Vadodara, June 28: The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGR) is set to showcase one of the state’s most renowned traditional handicrafts, Sankheda furniture. This initiative aims to connect local artisans with larger domestic and international markets while preserving this centuries-old craft.
Scheduled for June 29-30 at the GSFC University in Vadodara, the conference is expected to provide a platform for investment and industrial development. It also offers an opportunity to promote Gujarat’s rich cultural heritage.
The state government has stated that this initiative aligns with its vision of “Developed Gujarat, Developed India,” focusing on linking traditional artisans and local industries to new markets.
Sankheda furniture, crafted in and around the village of Sankheda near Vadodara, is known for its vibrant lacquer work and intricately hand-painted designs. Primarily produced by the Kharadi artisan community, this wooden furniture has been made for generations and is now sold in various Indian cities and international markets.
According to traditional accounts, this art form dates back nearly 200 years when a saint introduced local carpenter families to the technique of decorating wooden furniture with lacquer and metal embellishments. Over time, it has become one of Gujarat’s most distinctive handicrafts and has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its unique regional identity.
The Gujarat State Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation has taken several steps to assist artisans, including providing opportunities to participate in exhibitions, fairs, and marketing platforms.
They have also offered training in modern design, quality improvement, new production techniques, and marketing, along with financial support to enhance artisans’ skills and competitiveness.
Officials have noted that these efforts have enabled artisans to create products that better meet changing customer preferences, resulting in income increases of approximately 20 to 40 percent.
Sankheda furniture is primarily produced in areas surrounding Sankheda, Vadodara, and Chhota Udaipur. Artisans use traditional wooden tools alongside lathe machines to shape the wood, completing pieces through hand painting, lacquer coating, and polishing. Creating a single item can take about a month. This range includes traditional swings, stools, chairs, sofa sets, cradles, and dining tables, each showcasing intricate detailing and skills passed down through generations.
Officials stated, “Sankheda furniture has been promoted through handicraft fairs, expos, and exhibitions in cities like Ahmedabad, Delhi, and Mumbai, helping artisans reach new customers. This has also established direct marketing channels through emporiums and other sales outlets.”
According to the government, approximately three hundred Sankheda furniture artisans are directly involved in these efforts, while thousands are indirectly connected to the traditional handicraft economy.
The demand for Sankheda furniture has expanded beyond Gujarat, reaching cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Exports have increased to markets in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates, where buyers have shown interest in traditional swings, chairs, sofa sets, and home decor items.
Officials remarked, “Platforms like VGR will provide further opportunities to connect Sankheda furniture with investors, buyers, and the global market, supporting artisans’ livelihoods and preserving the state’s traditional craftsmanship.”
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