Different kinds of rocks originated on earth after many geological activities. These rocks with their different compositions have become stones like red stone, soapstone, sandstone, limestone, marble, granite, and many others. The Indian landmass is also made up of several types of rocks, and the stone obtained here has been used to make forts, palaces, temples, sculptures, household items, and for various other purposes. In India, the traditions of stone making have their roots in prehistoric times, because at that time, weapons and other tools were made of stone. A more professional approach to stone crafts appeared in the 7th century BC. During this time, several guilds of stone carvers and masons existed in India. During Maurya’s reign, stone craftsmanship reached its perfection. A number of rock stupas, rock-cut caves, and Buddhist chaityas were raised during this period. In India, all kinds of stone sculptures and structures were made according to Shilpshastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on sculpture and architecture.
A knowledgeable regional study of stone crafts in India
In India, certain regions are particularly rich in stone culture. A classic culture prevails there of stone crafts. Depending on the type of stone found and the tools used, the style and finish were different and unique.
Stone Carving Practices of Orissa
Stone carving is one of Orissa’s main handicrafts. Several archaeological monuments, sculptures carved in the rock, sculptures, and magnificent temples testify the claim.
All these have undergone a complex and very fine stone sculpture by the skillful hands of the craftsmen. The temples of Puri, Konark, Lingaraj, Parasurameshwar, and Mukteshwar are just marvels carved in stone. While the stupas erected in Lalitagiri, Ratnagiri and Udaygiri are only par excellence. The art of stone craftsmanship reached its peak in the ancient and medieval period of Orissa with a detailed exploration of each nuance of stone craftsmanship. This art has automatically passed on to the current generation from previous generations. The current breed is not far behind its predecessors to create the replica of the old masterpieces. Similarly, small sculptures are also produced in large quantities to meet the enormous requirements of visitors and locals.
Rajasthan Stone Carving Practices
Rajasthan has, although scarcity in wood and forest, it has abundant mineral minerals. The landmass of Rajasthan is rich in different rocks like granite, marble, quartzite, slate, and other metamorphic rocks. The forts and palaces of Bharatpur, Baroli, Ramgarh, Nagda, Ajmer, Chittor, Mandsore, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Udaipur were made using these stones.
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