Lakshmi Ganeshji Iron Shadow Diya

Description of Goods:

Moradabad is renowned for its brass work and has carved out a niche for itself in the handicraft industry worldwide. Skilled artisans create modern, attractive, and artistic brassware, jewelry, and trophies. Over time, new materials such as iron, aluminum, nickel, and silver have been incorporated into metal handicraft items.

In the 1970s, Moradabad primarily produced engraved metal (brass or Kansa) utensils, but by the 1980s, there was a decline in demand for engraved utensils, leading to a resurgence in plain utensils. Exporting began in the 1950s, initially focusing on brass trays for carrying perfume bottles and containers for holy water, engraved with Quranic prayers, to Arabian countries.

Iron items were introduced in 1991, followed by aluminum items in 1992, expanding Moradabad's product range. Iron rusting handicraft items were later introduced and gained international appreciation. The ability to adapt to international market demands, innovate new designs, product lines, and textures has enabled Moradabad to sustain and grow over time, earning it the nickname "Peetal Nagari" or Brass City.

Moradabad's brass wares are exported to countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Germany, and the Middle East. The district boasts around 600 export units and 5000 industries dealing with metal crafts, exporting goods worth Rs. 2200 crore annually.

In recent years, other products like iron sheet metalwares, aluminum artworks, and electroplated artworks have been included to meet foreign buyers' demands. There are 5250 small-scale metalware and metalcraft units in Moradabad District, generating revenue of Rs. 3600 crores and providing direct employment to 26800 artisans and 22500 workers indirectly.

Production Method:

Moradabad's metal handicrafts are produced using sand-based metal casting. The sand mold, formed from a sand mixture, is filled with molten metal, cooled, and separated from the mold. Sand casting requires a flask or molding box to contain the mold, commonly made of steel, aluminum, or wood.

Pattern design is done using computer-aided design (CAD) software, with patterns made from wood, wax, metal, or plastic. The sand mixture, known as a binder, takes the pattern's impression, forming the mold. After casting, chiseling tools are used to smooth and polish the surface, followed by grinding or buffing for further polishing.

Coloring is achieved through various techniques, including hand carving, powder coating, and electroplating. Electroplating involves using electrical current to coat a conductive object with a thin layer of metal. Antique finishes are also applied, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the handicrafts.

Uniqueness:

Moradabad's metal crafts are known for their lightweight and skilled craftsmanship. The industry's goodwill and reputation, built over centuries, contribute significantly to its uniqueness. The transfer of knowledge from generation to generation, coupled with the use of Ram Ganga sand in casting, further adds to Moradabad's distinctiveness in the metal craft industry.

The Moradabad Metal Craft received the GI Certificate on 31/03/2014.