Things We Make and Do — Local Crafts and Traditional Occupations of Himachal Pradesh

Overview

This topic connects children to the rich material culture of Himachal Pradesh by exploring traditional crafts and occupations that have sustained communities for centuries. In the HP TET examination, questions from this area test your understanding of specific crafts (Kullu shawl, Kangra paintings, Chamba rumal), their geographical associations, raw materials used, and the communities involved in these occupations.

The NCF emphasises learning from the local environment, making HP's handicrafts a natural fit for EVS pedagogy. You must know not just the names of crafts but also their cultural significance, production processes, and the link between geography and occupation. Expect questions that ask you to match crafts with districts, identify raw materials, or explain why certain occupations developed in particular regions.

Mastering this topic also helps you understand how to teach children about dignity of labour, local economy, and preservation of heritage — all essential pedagogical dimensions of EVS.

Key Concepts

• **Geography shapes occupation**: The availability of wool from Himalayan sheep led to weaving traditions in Kullu; abundant forests supported wood carving in Kinnaur; mineral-rich soil enabled pottery in Kangra and Mandi.

• **Kullu Shawl is a GI-tagged product**: Handwoven using local sheep wool, characterised by geometric patterns and bright borders, primarily produced by women weavers in Kullu district.

• **Kangra miniature paintings** originated under Rajput patronage in the 17th–18th centuries, depicting themes from Radha-Krishna love, Bhagavata Purana, and nature scenes with soft colours and delicate brushwork.

• **Chamba Rumal** is a unique embroidered handkerchief using untwisted silk thread (called "do-rukha" stitch), depicting mythological scenes; also holds GI tag.

• **Traditional occupations are community-based**: Weaving among Kullu families, metal craft among Thatheras of Jandiala Guru (Punjab origin but relevant), wood carving among Kinnauri artisans, and agriculture-pastoral activities across the state.

• **Seasonal and subsistence occupations**: Many HP communities combine farming with craft-making — weaving during winter months when farming is not possible.

• **Raw materials are locally sourced**: Wool from Gaddi sheep, natural dyes from walnut husk and indigo, slate from Kangra, deodar wood from forests.

• **Craft preservation links to livelihood and identity**: These crafts represent intangible cultural heritage and provide sustainable income to rural artisans.