Khagra

For the reed plant, see Phragmites karka.

Khagra is a neighbourhood of Baharampur in Murshidabad district in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is renowned for its manufacture of bell-metal and brass utensils, as well as ivory and wood carving.

Geography

Khagra is situated on the east bank of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly. Khagra Ghat is on the west bank of the river.

Economy

Utensil manufacture

Khagra is a centre for the manufacture of bell metal (locally known as kansa) and brass utensils. These have a traditional demand in the local markets and some are also exported. The problem of procuring raw materials and changing customer preference for stainless steel, plastic and ceramics is adversely affecting the industry.[1]

Ivory and wood carving

Khagra was a major centre of ivory carving.[2]With restrictions on ivory trade, the artisans have moved to sandalwood carving.[3]

Sweets

Khagraghat produces good quality khaja, a local speciality. [4]

References

  1. ↑ "Handicrafts and silk industry". Murshidabad district administration. Retrieved 2007-09-08.
  2. ↑ "Crafts and artisans of India". craftandartisans.com. Retrieved 2007-09-08.
  3. ↑ "West Bengal Tourism". India Tourism. Retrieved 2007-09-08.
  4. ↑ "Murhidabad". Time Wrap. journeymart.com. Retrieved 2007-09-08.

See also

This article is issued from Wikipedia - version of the Thursday, January 27, 2011. The text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share Alike but additional terms may apply for the media files.