Introduction

The silver and gold foils are traditionally called varakh in India and they are used for cladding and decorating sweets, rich biriyanis, paans, etc. The making of varakh is a very old technique and it is popular throughout the country. Varakh is also used in Ayurvedic medicines which emphasizes on the medicinal qualities of some metals like silver. Both men and women are involved in making this art. The reality is that varakh is very much man-made and it is a back-breaking task. Anyone could hear the synchronized bang-bang of Pannigars hammers even before reaching their lane and suddenly it feels like drowning in metallic sound.

The locality houses the Pannigars of Jaipur and the narrow lanes are filled with the constant sound of hammering. The craft of making fine varakh is mainly practiced by the Muslim communities and there are around 200 Pannigar families in Jaipur. They make varakh in small workshops built inside their houses and dwell in civic conditions which belie their rich trade.

The making of varakh involves five steps: the making of rods, followed by the strips, hammering the varakh, cutting the foil into shape, and packaging. First, a pannigar buys dalis or silver and gold biscuits. These are then melted into a liquid to be poured into thin rod-like moulds. The rods are pressed to make fine strips of 1-inch width. Pannigars then cut small pieces from these strips and place them on every page of the book or auzaar.

The placement is done manually so that each piece of silver/gold is over the other. The auzaar is kept in the Pushti or the leather cover and the flap is closed by applying a little amount of water on the surface. Then the hammering begins. A good pannigar always aims his blows to one exact spot on the cover and after some time, when auzaar is re-opened, the placement of the increased/expanded pieces of silver/ gold is changed. Hammering resumes and the entire process is repeated until the desired size is obtained. The auzaar is then sent for cutting of varakh and for packaging. In one day an artisan can make up to 2-3 booklets.

Experience Highlights

•  Meeting the master artist of the art
•  One to one conversation with the artist
•  Walking Tour in their locality
•  DIY activity
•  Souvenir

Duration

1.5 – 2 Hours

Timings

11:00 AM to 5:30 PM