Artisan Crafted Brass Elephant Lock and Key Set 'Festive Elephant' Item ID: 2669892274

“People say that I am a very good craftsman. The quality and look of my handcrafted items are very appealing and I am good at handling any odd situations.

“This is my ancestral work. I have seen my family members doing this work since childhood, so I also got interested in it. My brother and other family members taught me this art, and I started my own workshop in 1974. I love to make beautiful brass objects. I had to work very hard to learn this skill.

“I have always been very impressed to see our ancient Indian artworks, their carving, design and unique workmanship. From that, I get the inspiration to do the carvings in brass. I am proud that I started this work on my own, and after facing many difficulties I am taking it forward. My family members fully support me in this work. I have two sons. My eldest son helps me in creating the artwork and my younger son takes care of marketing and sales. I also taught this art to my children and many of my workers.

“We use all types of metals. But out of these brass and copper are used most. I love to create brass and copper lanterns and candle stands. I show the design made by me to my craftsmen and instruct them to make it like that. My craftsmen work very hard, attentively and diligently to make the pieces.

“I belong to the Thathera society. Many people in our society were associated with this workmanship. But the younger generation does not want to be associated with this work. The lack of artisans and declining interest and knowledge of handicrafts in the youth have been a cause of worry for me. The old craftsmen leave the work and the new craftsmen have to learn everything from the beginning. But after COVID, people have started to understand the importance of brass and copper utensils and their use. These metals are beneficial for our health. Our workmanship has again gained the interest of people in this art. The coming generation has also started seeing the possibility of employment in it.

“I want the world to recognize my ancestral talent in the brass handicraft industry. I want to tell everyone about the workmanship of brass and copper and the ayurvedic importance of these utensils so that the coming younger generation can easily connect with the industry.”