Bhadohi is a small yet flourishing town in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh. It’s internationally renowned for its carpet manufacturing industry. Although these carpets are manufactured in the entire area known as the ‘Mirzapur-Bhadohi belt,’ Bhadohi remains the main trade centre. Woollen carpets are a luxury commodity to be sold at exorbitant prices. Traditionally, carpet weaving in the area had been the monopoly of Muslims. However, in recent times, a considerably large number of non-Muslims have now taken up the craft. While many Indian handicrafts succumbed to the challenges of technological modernisation, the carpet industry has not only successfully stood tall in front of the onslaught of modernisation but has even managed to flourish over the years. This can mainly be attributed to the industry’s adaptability. The carpet industry of Bhadohi manufactures artistic floor carpets and rugs of fascinating designs, which are a big attraction in the foreign markets.
History of Carpet Weaving
The history of carpet manufacturing can be traced back to 500 B.C., in the Indian subcontinent. We find mentions of floor coverings and mats in several mediaeval Indian literatures. From his memoirs, we know that Babur missed his homeland in Central Asia, full of its lush culture. Amongst them was the Persian carpet. Thus, Akbar took it upon himself to introduce the Persian design of carpet weaving in India in 1580 A.D. From the very beginning, wool and silk were the prime materials for carpet weaving. The patterns of Indian carpets varied from vines and floral patterns to animal and bird figures and geometric and calligraphic patterns. The patterns were originally inspired by Persian style, which was then customised for an Indian audience.
These carpets underwent further sophistication under Jahangir. There was an increased usage of silk and pashmina, which permitted a greater number of knots and a tighter texture. These patterns led to more miniature paintings. From this time on, the Indian carpet began to show a more refined taste in design and construction. The carpets had scrolling vines, flowering plants, and more naturalistic animals in a pictorial or overall pattern.
After the Revolt of 1857, Agra, Delhi, and other places were full of turmoil, which led to a significant number of carpet weavers fleeing from Agra and taking shelter in the village of Madhosingh on the G.T. road located between Bhadohi and Mirzapur. Here, they continued their carpet weaving business, but on a very small scale. Perhaps from the 19th century onwards, several entrepreneurs came to realise the economic viability of carpet making and began establishing their companies in Bhadohi to produce carpets on a large scale.
Types of Carpets
Synthetic Carpets: These carpets are made using synthetic fibres. It delivers superior strength when compared to natural fibre carpets. It has wide applications in the military, industry, and horticulture sectors. However, synthetic carpets are not human-health-friendly.
Pure Silk Carpets: These are completely made up of silk. In most carpet belts, manufacturing and weaving silk carpets is a family business where the secrets and techniques are transferred from one generation to the following ones.
Gabbe Woollen Carpets: Such carpets are predominantly produced in the Bhadohi-Mirzapur regions of Uttar Pradesh. This kind of carpet uses indigenous and unique traditions of various tribal patterns. These carpets are the costliest in the market in comparison to all others available. It’s generally made of 25% cotton and 75% wool, but the actual composition is still unknown.
Tufted Woollen Carpets: These types of carpets are made by both hand and machine. These types of rugs can be produced easily and are cheaper than other options. It has more variety in terms of colour and patterns. It contributes more to the export volumes.
Handmade Woollen Durries: These types of carpet are made up of the finest wool, making them look better and more beautiful. These carpets can be woven only by some specific communities living in the inlands of India. These carpets are custom-made according to the required design and quality of the clients.
Wool Chain Stitch Rugs: These rugs are made by loosely twisting the yarn on cotton or linen-based materials. These types of rugs are very famous and are placed in most of the museums and exhibitions around the world. Rotating from the centre, the rows of this type of rug create solid and stylish patterns, making a clear embossed feeling to add different textures.
Hand-Knotted Woollen Carpets: Well-liked for their elegant style and unique craftsmanship, these types of carpets are adored all around the world. There are many carpet manufacturers who offer customised carpets for clients as they require.
Motifs
Bhadohi carpets are distinguished by their intricate motifs, which reflect an amalgamation of Persian, Mughal, and Indian influences. Some of the most prominent motifs are:
Floral Patterns: Inspired by nature, these designs include delicate flowers, vines, and leaves, often arranged symmetrically.
Geometric Designs: These feature intricate symmetrical patterns, shapes, and borders that give a structured and uniformed appeal to the carpets.
Medallions: There are basically designs with a central focal point, usually circular or diamond-shaped. It is a common feature in traditional Bhadohi carpets.
Animal and Bird Depictions: Some carpets showcase artistic representations of animals and birds, a style dating back to the Persian and Mughal styles of art.
Abstract and contemporary motifs: Modern designs often incorporate abstract elements and minimalist patterns, catering to contemporary tastes.
Current Status
Today, Bhadohi continues to be the largest carpet manufacturing hub in India, employing thousands of artisans in the craft. Despite the rise of machine-made carpets, Bhadohi’s handwoven carpets still enjoy global recognition for their superior quality and artistic value. The Indian government and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have taken significant steps to promote and protect Bhadohi’s carpet industry. The region has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which helps prevent imitation and ensures that authentic Bhadohi carpets maintain their market reputation. Additionally, modern advancements such as digital designing and e-commerce platforms have enabled local artisans to connect directly with international buyers, bypassing middlemen and increasing their earnings.
However, the industry continues to face challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, competition from cheaper synthetic carpets, and the need for sustainable practices. To address these issues, there is a growing focus on eco-friendly dyeing techniques, ethical labour practices, and skill development programs to train the next generation of weavers.
Despite the challenges, Bhadohi’s carpet industry is poised for growth due to increasing global demand for handmade, sustainable, and custom-designed carpets. Several initiatives, including government subsidies and trade fairs, have been launched to boost exports and encourage young artisans to continue the tradition. With evolving consumer preferences, Bhadohi weavers are also experimenting with contemporary designs and innovative techniques to appeal to modern buyers. As artisans innovate while preserving age-old techniques, Bhadohi’s carpets will continue to adorn homes and spaces worldwide, reflecting India’s rich artistic legacy. The fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern technology ensures that Bhadohi’s carpet weaving industry will remain a beacon of cultural heritage and economic progress for years to come.