Handicrafts of Sikkim

Handicrafts of Sikkim

Traditional arts and handicrafts have been the very breath of Indian Civilization visa-vis Sikkim too.
Significantly, Sikkim is also known for its traditional handicrafts, paintings, motifs, carpet, traditional tribal shoes, dresses, ornaments, weaving, and so on.
The traditional handicrafts in Sikkim had has enormous cultural significance.
Many of the Bhutia and Lepcha as well as Nepalese are engaged in traditional handicrafts production of Sikkim.

Handloom Weaving of Sikkim

In ancient times, the Lepcha’s of Sikkim were said to use yarn spun out of stinging nettle (sisnu) plant to weave clothes.
Today Cotton and woollen yarn are used together with vegetable dyes and synthetic colours.
Lepcha weaves or ‘thara’ is woven in vertical looms with a backstrap. Such looms are of small width.
Traditional design with different colours are used to make tharas which are used for making bedspreads, bags, belts, curtains, cushion covers, table mats, tray cloths etc, apart from their traditional dress.

Woodcarving of Sikkim

It is one of the most important crafts of Sikkim.
Traditionally, only the Buddhists Bhutias and Lepchas used to practise wood carving. Indeed, wood carving is an ancient art form of both the Lepchas and Bhutias of Sikkim.
The items of woodcraft having wide range of variety can be found from household items to partitions to eight Buddhists lucky signs.
Woodcrafts are available in the following shapes choktse or table, almirah, sofa-sets, drawers or bhodin , screens, lamp stands, cheosum or altars, wall decorations, etc.

Wooden mask of Sikkim

One of the most important materials items of Buddhists’ traditional culture that has special socio-religious significance is wooden mask of various types being used during their religious dances by the Lamas.
The masks are carved out of the tough Light wood of the giant climber called Zaru-shing, mostly found in the high altitude areas of Sikkim.
While in Tibet they were composed of mashed paper and cloth.
In all cases they are beautifully painted and varnished, and are provided with yak tail wig.
Each mask has a specific meaning and a story with certain religious connotation associated Various Wooden Masks with it.
Traditionally the mask dances are staged by the Lamas or monks in the Gonpas or Monasteries.
Such dances are normally performed only by men in the monasteries.
There are different types of mask normally made by Bhutias and Lepchas like mask of Khangchendzonga, mask of Garura, mask of Mahakal, etc.

Thangka Painting of Sikkim

The important Thangka is a paintings of divinities or group of divinities on silk clothes which depicts different incarnations and life of Lord Buddha, Goddess Doma (Tara), Guru Padmasambhav or God Chana Dorji or for that matter, any Tibetan saint, wheel of life (one of the purest Buddhists emblems) or some other deity, surrounded by deities of lesser significance etc.
Thangkas are the religious scrolls found hung in monasteries and houses of Buddhists.
It has an excellent tradition in Sikkim.
Such paintings are considered very auspicious and are supposed to drive away evil spirits.
Thangka painting is a renowned art of Sikkim.
“The Thangka works of master craftsmen sell for thousands of rupees abroad. They work in seclusion in remote villages” as cited by exgovernor of Sikkim namely Taleyarkhan (1981)

Cane and bamboo work of Sikkim

It is also the traditional handicraft Bhutias, Lepchas and Nepalese of Sikkim.
Cane and bamboo pieces are first of all split by using simple tools like Khukri or knife to make thin strips.
Thereafter the strips are sized as per requirement and are then intricately woven and modified and improved upon as per the graphical design.
There are varieties of cane and bamboo-craft products like, fruit, baskets, bamboo flower sticks bear mugs, hair clips, tea-trays, tea strainers, spoons, flower vases, piras, mats, hats and tumblers.
In Sikkim bamboo grows in abundance. But the cane is grown only in limited areas; thereby bulk of it comes from neighboring Siliguri or other parts of the North East.

Preparation of Lucky signs of Sikkim

Another important handicraft is the ‘Lucky signs’ mostly made by Women in Sikkim.
The lucky signs are made by adopting two types of methods

one type of embroidery work done by using needle on silk or ‘sharteen’ clothes
Another is the paintwork (fabric) on silkl’shirteen’ clothes.

Such lucky signs are presented either in the form of words or symbol. It is used as wall hanging and means the ‘symbol of peace’.

Hand-made paper making of Sikkim

It is another important handicraft item.
Apart from other units, there is another important section namely Handmade – paper unit in the Government Institute of Cottage Industry at Gangtok, Unit was opened in the year of 1962.
Handmade paper, namely ,

Rayon paper (used for rapping);
Rags paper (used for making files);
Card sheet (used for making greeting cards and paper bag).

Raw materials are used to be brought from Kolkata.

Carpet Weaving of Sikkim

Traditionally, carpet (locally known as Den) weaving is a symbol of cultural expression in the state of Sikkim.
Besides, Carpet is very important export oriented handicraft industry in Sikkim.
The carpets are of with various exquisite and intricate designs, motifs and colours which are typical of Sikkimese type and made of various sizes.
The price ranges vary according to size and quality of the particular carpet. Carpet weaving is dominated Carpet product by women.
Though it is a traditional activity, very few families follow it as apart of family tradition.

Blanket Weaving of Sikkim

It is also one of the traditional handicrafts of Sikkim
It is normally done by women particularly in North Sikkim.
The blankets are woven on loom, and the raw materials are available in local market.
There are mainly two sizes of blanket available i.e. 4 ft. by 6ft. and 4 ft. by 7 ft.

Soft Toys of Sikkim Supported by Sikkim Government and GoI

The Soft Toys Production unit of the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Zero Point, Gangtok is one of the prominent sectors for support and creation of self EMPLOYMENT in Sikkim.
This sector is being re-energized into a home to home industry through a project initiative namely “Production and Training for Soft Toys at Gangtok, Sikkim “funded by the North Eastern Council, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India and also Government of Sikkim.
The toy making craft is an activity that can supplement and contribute to the family income and also create self employment.
The focus of the department is therefore to facilitate continuous capacity building and skill upgradation in this sector and thereby create a resource base of trained manpower.
Quality standardization and product diversification are two important areas of focus and therefore the best raw materials for creation of quality products are being used in the training centres.
The training module has been oriented in such a manner so as to emphasis and promote products that are closely connected with the Environment and also identify with the local ethos.
Our main motto is to offer quality products to our valued customers at competitive prices.
The Soft Toys Sector provides self employment and income to the large number of artisan in terms of quality and cost comparativeness of the soft toys products of DHH are compared to the best of the world.
Presently, one project on “Production and Training on Soft Toys at Gangtok, Sikkim” funded by North East Council is underway and 225 numbers of trainees are being trained all over the state.
The department is required to ensure placement and create self employment for the trainees within and outside the state.

Sikkim is a state in northeastern India. It is bordered by Bhutan to the west, China to the north and east, Nepal to the south, and West Bengal to the southwest. The capital of Sikkim is Gangtok.

Sikkim is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, including its Mountains, forests, and lakes. The state is also home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali.

Sikkim is a land of rich culture and tradition. The state is home to a number of handicrafts, which are made by skilled artisans. Some of the most popular handicrafts of Sikkim include bamboo and cane work, carpets and rugs, Metal work, paper mache, Pottery, wood carving, and woolen garments.

Bamboo and cane work is one of the most popular handicrafts of Sikkim. Bamboo and cane are used to make a variety of items, including baskets, mats, furniture, and Musical instruments.

Carpets and rugs are another popular handicraft of Sikkim. Carpets and rugs are made from wool, cotton, and silk. They are often decorated with traditional Sikkimese designs.

Metal work is another popular handicraft of Sikkim. Metal work is used to make a variety of items, including jewelry, utensils, and weapons.

Paper mache is another popular handicraft of Sikkim. Paper mache is made from paper pulp. It is used to make a variety of items, including toys, masks, and decorative items.

Pottery is another popular handicraft of Sikkim. Pottery is made from clay. It is used to make a variety of items, including pots, pans, and utensils.

Wood carving is another popular handicraft of Sikkim. Wood carving is used to make a variety of items, including furniture, religious idols, and decorative items.

Woolen garments are another popular handicraft of Sikkim. Woolen garments are made from wool. They are often decorated with traditional Sikkimese designs.

Sikkimese handicrafts are a beautiful and unique part of the state’s culture. They are made with care and skill by talented artisans. If you are ever in Sikkim, be sure to take some time to appreciate the state’s rich handicraft tradition.

Here are some additional details about each of the handicrafts mentioned above:

Bamboo and cane work: Bamboo and cane are used to make a variety of items, including baskets, mats, furniture, and musical instruments. Bamboo and cane are strong and durable materials that are well-suited for a variety of purposes. They are also lightweight and easy to work with, making them a popular choice for handicrafts.
Carpets and rugs: Carpets and rugs are made from wool, cotton, and silk. They are often decorated with traditional Sikkimese designs. Carpets and rugs are used for both decorative and practical purposes. They can be used to cover floors, provide warmth, and add a touch of color and style to a room.
Metal work: Metal work is used to make a variety of items, including jewelry, utensils, and weapons. Metal work is a skilled craft that requires a high level of craftsmanship. Metalworkers use a variety of techniques to create their works of art, including hammering, forging, and casting.
Paper mache: Paper mache is made from paper pulp. It is used to make a variety of items, including toys, masks, and decorative items. Paper mache is a versatile material that can be used to create a variety of objects. It is lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for handicrafts.
Pottery: Pottery is made from clay. It is used to make a variety of items, including pots, pans, and utensils. Pottery is a traditional craft that has been practiced for centuries. Potters use a variety of techniques to create their works of art, including wheel throwing, hand building, and slip casting.
Wood carving: Wood carving is used to make a variety of items, including furniture, religious idols, and decorative items. Wood carving is a skilled craft that requires a high level of craftsmanship. Woodcarvers use a variety of tools to create their works of art, including chisels, gouges, and knives.
Woolen garments: Woolen garments are made from wool. They are often decorated with traditional Sikkimese designs. Woolen garments are warm and comfortable, making them ideal for cold weather. They are also stylish and can be dressed up or down.

What is Sikkim?
Sikkim is a state in northeastern India. It is bordered by Bhutan to the west, China to the north and east, Nepal to the south, and West Bengal to the southwest. The capital of Sikkim is Gangtok.

What are the main languages spoken in Sikkim?
The main languages spoken in Sikkim are Nepali, Sikkimese, Bhutia, and Lepcha.

What are the main religions practiced in Sikkim?
The main religions practiced in Sikkim are Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism, Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism, and Christianity.

What are some of the popular tourist attractions in Sikkim?
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Sikkim include Nathula Pass, Yumthang Valley, Tsomgo Lake, and Gangtok.

What are some of the traditional handicrafts of Sikkim?
Some of the traditional handicrafts of Sikkim include weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork.

What are some of the traditional foods of Sikkim?
Some of the traditional foods of Sikkim include momos, thukpa, and sikkimese curry.

What are some of the festivals celebrated in Sikkim?
Some of the festivals celebrated in Sikkim include Losar, Dussehra, and Tihar.

What are some of the interesting facts about Sikkim?
Some of the interesting facts about Sikkim include that it is the only state in India with a Buddhist majority, that it is home to the world’s third highest mountain, Kanchenjunga, and that it is the only state in India with a female chief minister.

What are some of the challenges facing Sikkim?
Some of the challenges facing Sikkim include POVERTY, Unemployment, and Environmental Degradation.

What are some of the opportunities for Sikkim?
Some of the opportunities for Sikkim include tourism, agriculture, and hydropower.

What is the future of Sikkim?
The future of Sikkim looks bright. The state has a strong economy, a stable government, and a diverse Population. Sikkim is well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.

Sure, here are some multiple choice questions about Sikkim:

Sikkim is located in:
(a) India
(b) China
(c) Nepal
(d) Bhutan
The capital of Sikkim is:
(a) Gangtok
(b) Darjeeling
(c) Kalimpong
(d) Namchi
The Official Language of Sikkim is:
(a) Nepali
(b) Sikkimese
(c) Hindi
(d) English
The population of Sikkim is about:
(a) 600,000
(b) 700,000
(c) 800,000
(d) 900,000
The main religion in Sikkim is:
(a) Hinduism
(b) Buddhism
(c) Christianity
(d) Islam
The highest mountain in Sikkim is:
(a) Kanchenjunga
(b) Everest
(c) Lhotse
(d) Makalu
Sikkim is a popular tourist destination for:
(a) its mountains
(b) its monasteries
(c) its wildlife
(d) all of the above
Sikkim became a state of India in:
(a) 1975
(b) 1974
(c) 1973
(d) 1972
The first Chief Minister of Sikkim was:
(a) Pawan Kumar Chamling
(b) Nar Bahadur Bhandari
(c) Lhendup Dorji
(d) Kazi Lhendup Dorji
The current Chief Minister of Sikkim is:
(a) Pawan Kumar Chamling
(b) Nar Bahadur Bhandari
(c) Lhendup Dorji
(d) Kazi Lhendup Dorji

I hope these questions were helpful!