Bamboo Craft
Most Loved
CRAFTS OF INDIA
कमाल कारीगरी
Goa has always been a popular holiday destination for tourists all over the globe. It’s not an overstatement to consider Goa as a treasure trunk where every time one visits finds something new to explore. Amazing, no? During such a visit, I came across one of Goa's most popular handicrafts, the bamboo craft of Goa or in other words, Lavo Mandri craft.
Made of ‘Lavo’ grass in Goa, Mandri is a type of handmade mat that feels more comfortable to sleep on or sit on. However, the pitfall of this Goa art and craft is figuring out artists with in-depth knowledge of this Goan craft.
History of Lavo Mandri Handicrafts of Goa
Lavo Mandri handicrafts have always been popular among the local tribal villagers. These were primary necessities that allowed them to have a comfortable rest after a long day or to the guests. But things took a turn when plastic mats came onto the market. As plastic mats were produced in bulk and were a lot cheaper, it didn’t take long for them to replace Goa’s very own Mandri.
But people also soon realised what they had let go almost next to extinction just to pick a more budget-friendly option. Being a warm, humid state with a tropical monsoon climate type, the people understood the cons of plastic mats. Due to its weather, people here sweat profusely even while resting and the plastic mats made it worse. The mats stick to the people and make them feel uncomfortable.
But such concerns are non-existent with Lavo Mandri as it’s made of natural resources. Its plummeting demand soon shot up and people were buying them again. But its supply was no competition to the demand during 2015 as there were only two women in the entire Goa who were commercially producing them. But the ray of light during such a situation was though people were not crafting them, they were aware of its production process. Since then, the commercial production of crafts of Goa has re-emerged and brands like iTokri are the mode to source them.
The Material Used for Lavo Mandri Craft
Central to the art of Lavo Mandri crafts is the lavo grass, a sustainable and abundant resource found all across Goa's lush landscapes. But that’s not it! This renowned Goa art & craft also uses jute threads which are braided to give them a form amidst which the lavo grass passes and achieves its criss-cross appearance.
Lavo mandri craft is truly an art that is the result of a love for nature, sustainability, flexibility, durability, and respect for local crafts. Witnessing the artists create handmade products using the bamboo craft of Goa is truly a pleasure. It feels no less than observing a magic to happen, an ethereal creation to come alive.
Sourced from local forests and skillfully harvested by artisans, the jute strings and wild grass undergo a long process to finally get their stunning appearance. Some artists also use biodegradable vegan colours to craft colourful mats. And now not only mats, artists also prepare Lavo-made wedding ritual essentials, home decor items and storage materials. We have come a long way since the declining demand of Lavo Mandri.
Process of Lavo Mandri Handicrafts
The crafting of Lavo Mandri handicrafts is a labour of love, requiring patience, precision, and a deep understanding of traditional techniques. Being a traditional Indian craft, the tools used in this artwork are minimal and handiwork covers the lion’s share of creation work. This Goa art & craft is so ecologically sound that even the machine ‘Kamb’ that’s used in this art is made of wood. The chances of polluting nature to prepare Lavo mandri are almost nil. From the intricate weaving of jute strands to the careful shaping and finishing of each piece and colouring them, artisans only use eco-friendly materials. The artists employ age-old methods passed down through generations.
At the heart of this process lies the artisan's skilful hands, which bring life to raw materials, transforming simple Lavo grass into works of art. Each piece of bamboo craft of Goa reflects the unique craftsmanship and artistic vision of its creator.
Types of Products Made Using Lavo Craft
Mandri or mat is the primary item that’s made of lavo, but it’s not the end. The diversity of Lavo Mandri handicrafts is evident in its ability to breathe life into home decor items, baskets, wall hangings, tableware, and various other everyday essentials. This rich craft of Goa blends utility with aesthetic appeal.
One of the most iconic examples of the bamboo craft of Goa is the traditional 'cane chair,' a symbol of Goan hospitality and heritage that’s spread across India. Crafted with precision and featuring intricate patterns, these chairs are both functional furniture pieces and timeless works of art.
So as we now know, Lavo Mandri handicrafts embody the soul of Goa, you might feel elated to make it a part of your life. But where to find them? Worry not! iTokri is a well-known, reliable virtual handicraft store where you can access Lavo Mandri craft items from Goa's local artisans. Help preserve and promote the art of Lavo Mandri crafts to secure our heritage for generations to come.
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