Ashirwad Pose Silver Ganesha Meenakari Craft

Gulabi Minakari is one of the rarest crafts in India that is practiced in the bylanes of Varanasi, near Gai Ghat. Minakari is an art form from Persia and involves colouring the surface of metals by fusing different colours. This art was brought to the city of Varanasi by Persian enamellists during the Mughal era around the early 17th century. The word 'mina' is the feminine form of the Persian word 'Minoo' and means 'heaven'. It refers to the azure colour of heaven. In Varanasi, it is practiced on jewellery and home decor items.

One can also buy souvenirs like birds and elephants decorated with minakari. It shows most beautifully on gold as its natural sheen sets off the colours best. It also looks lovely on enamel. Thus, one can shop for products with minakari work on them like jewellery boxes, idols, sculptures, key chains, dining sets, trays, cupboards etc.