Centre for Traditional Art and Craft, Manali Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Himachal is known for its handicrafts & fine art such as Kullu & Kinnauri shawls, Kangra Paintings, Chambarumals and many others. But gradually many traditional art forms and Techniques are heading towards obscurity. Connection with the outer world gives a major Boost to the place and its economy but at the same time it has major effect on the culture and traditional practices of the area. Better connectivity and communication facilities provide us with a lot of opportunities, modern practices such as cheap and easily available building techniques, materials which result in ignorance for the traditional building techniques, indigenous building materials. An increasing gap can be seen between the traditional and the contemporary markets in the context of Himachal Pradesh. This stems from the existing concern of consumer indifference towards the local, rational and cultural practices. There can be many reasons for this indifference but the most commonly observed is unawareness due to diminishing interaction. The Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism Financing Facility, has proposed to develop and improve basic urban infrastructure and services in the four participating states of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu to support the tourism sector as a key driver for economic growth. Centre for traditional arts and crafts is proposed by HP tourism at Badangran, Manali, to act as a catalyst for promotion of the traditional practices and performances of Himachal Pradesh in such a way that it would be beneficial for the local communities as well as for tourism promotion in the State and for portrayal of the vivid culture of Himachal in a wider perspective. The thesis aims at spreading awareness in the consumer community through the platform of tourism and tools like experiential economy leading to increased user interaction. Consequently the consumers are enlightened towards the passion, detail, diligence and complexity of art involved in traditional crafts and rituals and develop both interest and appreciation for the art forms. This can give a considerable edge to these commodities in the market which is currently depleting and help in realizing the importance of culture and raising the sales thus saving the livelihood of those involved in this vocation. The final outcomes will act as foundation in the design of spaces in the traditional art and craft center that will promote the culture, the vocation and uplift the culture of Himachal Pradesh.