‘From Lakshagriha to Lac’: Centuries-Old Craft Tradition Reflected in Rajasthani Lac Bangles
Artisan Iftikhar Ahmed Continues Five-Generation Family Legacy of Lac Bangles and Jewellery
Traditional Rajasthani Lac Craft Gains Recognition in India and Abroad
Jaipur, August 2026 : Rajasthan’s rich folk culture, cuisine and handicrafts are attracting visitors at the ten-day ‘Teejotsav-2026’ being held at Bikaner House in New Delhi until August 24. Among the major attractions at the festival is the State’s traditional lac craft, with colourful lac bangles and jewellery drawing considerable interest from women and other visitors.
The traditionally handcrafted bangles reflect Rajasthan’s distinctive identity in terms of craftsmanship, vibrant colours and intricate designs. The craft has remained an important part of the State’s traditional attire and jewellery culture for generations.
Iftikhar Ahmed, who has brought lac bangles and jewellery to the festival, said his family has been associated with lac craftsmanship for the past five generations. He said the family has continued the traditional techniques passed down through generations to create lac bangles and a variety of ornaments.
According to Ahmed, lac bangles have traditionally formed an important part of Rajasthani attire and adornment. Their colourful combinations and distinctive designs continue to attract customers and preserve the cultural character of Rajasthan’s traditional handicrafts.
Ahmed said his family’s traditional craft has received appreciation not only across India but also internationally. He has been invited to display his creations at exhibitions held in several countries, providing an opportunity to introduce Rajasthan’s traditional lac craftsmanship to international audiences.
He said the interest shown by people in different countries in lac bangles and jewellery has encouraged him to continue and promote the family’s traditional craft. Ahmed is participating in the Teejotsav at Bikaner House for the first time and said he was encouraged by the response from visitors and their keen interest in his products.
He also appreciated government-organised exhibitions and fairs for providing artisans with platforms and essential facilities to showcase and market their traditional crafts. Such events, he said, enable craftsmen to interact directly with consumers and explain the distinctive features of their art.
‘From Lakshagriha to Lac’
Speaking about the history associated with lac, Ahmed said folk traditions connect the material with the Lakshagriha episode of the Mahabharata. He expressed pride in carrying forward a craft that has been passed down through generations and said his effort is to ensure that the heritage of lac craftsmanship remains protected and reaches future generations.
He stressed that in the modern era, traditional handicrafts need to be connected with new markets and younger consumers. Events such as Teejotsav provide artisans with an opportunity to engage directly with customers, showcase their skills and create greater awareness about their traditional art forms.
Lac Bangles Reflect Rajasthan’s Traditional Identity
The lac bangles displayed at the festival feature traditional colour combinations, attractive designs and intricate handmade detailing. Visitors are showing particular interest in the products as symbols of Rajasthan’s cultural identity and traditional craftsmanship.
The presence of lac craft at Teejotsav is therefore not limited to commercial activity. It also offers visitors an opportunity to understand and appreciate a centuries-old handicraft tradition that has survived through generations.
Through artisans such as Iftikhar Ahmed, Rajasthan’s traditional lac craft continues to find new audiences while retaining its cultural roots. The Teejotsav-2026 platform is helping bring this distinctive craft closer to consumers while giving artisans an opportunity to preserve, promote and take their ancestral skills to wider markets.
