Brass Traditional Dhokra Crafts

 Dhokra (or Dokra) is non–ferrous metal casting using the ‘lost-wax casting’ technique. This technique of metal casting has been used in India for over 4,000 years and is still in use. One of the earliest known ‘lost wax casting’ artefacts is the famous statue of the dancing girl of Mohenjo-daro which we all have seen in our history textbooks.

The name ‘Dhokra’ comes from the Dhokra Damar tribes, who are the traditional metal smiths of  West Bengal. Their technique of lost wax casting is named after their tribe, hence Dhokra metal casting. The tribe extends from Jharkhand to Orissa to as far ahead to Chattisgarh, Rajasthan and even Kerala ! Hence Dhokra craft is now found all over India.

Dhokra Art is still used to craft artefacts, accessories, utensils and jewellery. It is differentiated by its rustic simplicity, enchanting folk motifs and clean, distinctive, lines. The artistry of jewellery making in brass using the craft of Dhokra Art, was practiced in the Indus Valley Civilization, Rome as well as in Egypt. India has been the largest brass making country in the world, practicing this art for the last 5000 years.


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