Jaipur Rugs

During the challenging days of COVID, Saroj, Kavita, and Mishri —a trio of mother-in-law and daughters-in-law —crafted Leheriya Manchaha on their loom at home. Unlike the vibrant, contrasting yarns they usually received for Manchaha rugs, this time, only shades of grey and black were delivered. For the first time, the trio planned their design, rather than their spontaneous method of weaving, dividing the rug into two halves: one with lighter tones and the other with darker shades.

During the creation, the festival of Makar Sankrati also known as the kite flying festival arrived. The usual village gatherings were out of the question due to COVID. So, Saroj, Kavita, and Mishri decided to celebrate the festival in their own creative way—crafting kites on the loom. They wove different kite motifs along with manjha (kite strings), capturing the joy of the festival. Adding a personal touch, they also wove a diagonal staircase on the left side of the rug which would lead to the terrace where they fly kites.

The lighter half of the rug captures a flowing river, depicted in the traditional leheriya (waves) patterns that inspired the rug’s name. This rug reflects how the entire family comes together in the creation of a Manchaha rug, each adding their own touch of love and personality to the masterpiece.

In the village of Kishanpura, Rajasthan, Saroj, her sister-turned-sister-in-law Kavita, and their mother-in-law Mishri form a talented trio of weavers. Saroj and Kavita share a unique bond, being both sisters and sisters-in-law, a relationship that deepens their connection and teamwork. Together, they have crafted around 25 beautiful Manchaha rugs, each reflecting their creativity and harmony. Saroj, weaving for 16 years, dreams of exploring new cultures and finds inspiration under open skies, believing “happiness lies in small things.” Self-taught by observing local artisans, their rugs blend tradition and personal expression, showcasing the strength of their relationships and shared passion. 

Kathari is the first-ever Manchaha rug created by artisans Sushila, Raj Rani, and Geeta, drawing inspiration from the traditional designs of Bicchona (bed mats), Baina (hand fans), and their everyday surroundings. While the artisans were excited by the vibrant array of wool and silk colors, they initially felt a lack of inspiration. When nothing struck, they started noticing their surroundings, and much to their surprise, it provided us with the inspiration they needed. They started weaving designs inspired by the Baina and the intricate Aari Taari embroidery, a glittering technique traditionally practiced by the men in their families. 

The design also incorporates a symbolic representation of a buffalo dung heap, inspired by their pet buffalo - Nandini, and the rural landscape around them. The diamond-like shape of the rug echoes the structure of the Baina and Bicchona, which they create and decorate by hand in their homes. Kathari is a true reflection of the craftsmanship passed down through generations, showcasing how small, personal innovations can transform everyday elements into something beautiful, captured in the artistry of their hand-knotted wool and silk rug.