The Indica Heritage Collection

Indica Collection started as a one-point stop for ethnic products in one place. I know making a dream into a reality is difficult. We as an idea started before Etsy’s.com. The idea was in 2004. Back then nobody was so encouraging in matters of IT. Indica Collection wanted a brand for quality Deshi products. This was not limited to just from ethnic handicrafts or handicrafts from Bangladesh. This is why we coined the term IBP or India Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Anyway, let me introduce you to things we have in our collection.

1. Nakshi Kantha”

What is Nakshi Kantha? Simply put is a traditional quilt made by the hands of village women. This art has been carried from generation to generation.

Nakshi Kantha, a traditional quilt from the Indian subcontinent, holds a rich cultural significance deeply rooted in the history of Bengal. Literally translating to "embroidered quilt," Nakshi Kantha is more than just a piece of fabric; it's a labor of love, craftsmanship, and storytelling.

Typically made by rural women, Nakshi Kantha quilts are created by layering old saris or dhotis and stitching them together with colorful threads. The intricate embroidery on Nakshi Kantha tells tales of everyday life, folklore, myths, and nature, making each quilt a unique narrative of Bengali heritage.

Originally, Nakshi Kantha served practical purposes, such as keeping warm during cold nights or as gifts for special occasions like weddings or childbirth. However, over time, it has evolved into a form of art appreciated worldwide for its exquisite craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Nakshi Kantha quilts come in various sizes, from small cushion covers to large bedspreads, and are adorned with motifs like birds, animals, flowers, and geometric patterns. Each stitch on the Nakshi Kantha reflects the artisan's creativity, patience, and skill, making it a cherished heirloom passed down through generations.

Today, Nakshi Kantha continues to be an integral part of Bengali culture, celebrated for its beauty, craftsmanship, and the stories it weaves into the fabric of history.

These are some of the products that Bengali Muslims from British India went to sell in America and England.

Vivek Bald mentions this in his book called Bengali Harlem. This place is in New York, USA. It is very shocking to find out Bengali Muslims from Hooghly, Noakhali, and Sylhet went to United States to make their living in 1800s, during British India. Then they were all similar: Bengali Muslims from India.

According to Vivek Bald, a MIT assistant professor:

“On the cynical side, one might say that because they were dark-skinned in the era of segregation, Bengalis could live nowhere else other than Black neighbourhoods and that the existing groups in those neighborhoods didn't have a lot of say in the matter”

This is a different story but interesting as well. About Bengali Muslims immigration to US and settling there. Their descendants rediscovering their ancestors from Bengal.

2. Jamdani Saris

History:

Jamdani sarees, a symbol of elegance and tradition, originate from Dhaka, Bangladesh, with roots tracing back to the Mughal era. These exquisite sarees are meticulously handwoven using fine cotton or silk yarns, featuring intricate floral or geometric motifs. Historically, Jamdani sarees were patronized by Mughal emperors and nobility, reflecting their royal status and refined taste. Today, Jamdani sarees continue to be cherished for their craftsmanship and timeless beauty, worn on special occasions and weddings. Each Jamdani saree tells a story of cultural heritage and artisanal skill, embodying the rich tradition and artistry of Bangladesh. They are worn nowadays by Bengali and Indian women in special occasions. A symbol of prestige

3. Jute Products

Bangladesh is known for jute products. The Adam Jee jute mill at the time was one biggest producers in the world. The products contain:

· Bags

· Tree Pot

· Bags

4. Pashmina Shawls

The history of Pashmina shawls traces back to ancient times in the region of Kashmir, located in present-day India and Pakistan. The word "Pashmina" is derived from the Persian word "Pashm," meaning wool, reflecting the origins of these luxurious shawls.

Pashmina shawls are made from the fine wool of Pashmina goats, which are native to the Himalayan region. These goats have a special fleece that keeps them warm in the harsh mountain climates. The wool is known for its softness, warmth, and lightweight quality, making it highly prized for textiles.

The art of weaving Pashmina shawls has been practiced for centuries in Kashmir. Historically, Pashmina shawls were worn by royalty and nobility, symbolizing wealth, status, and prestige. They were often given as gifts and were considered valuable heirlooms passed down through generations.

During the Mughal era in India (16th to 19th centuries), Pashmina shawls gained popularity among the elite, including emperors, queens, and courtiers. The Mughal rulers were patrons of the arts and played a significant role in promoting the production and trade of Pashmina shawls.

In the 19th century, Pashmina shawls gained international acclaim when they were exported to Europe, particularly to France and Britain. European aristocrats coveted these exquisite shawls for their elegance and fine craftsmanship.

Today, Pashmina shawls remain highly sought after for their timeless beauty and quality. They are handcrafted by skilled artisans in Kashmir using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Despite modern manufacturing methods, authentic Pashmina shawls continue to be prized for their superior quality and exquisite craftsmanship, preserving their rich heritage for future generations.

They are from Kashmir,India. Yes they are part of Indicia Collection.

5. Blue Multani Pottery

They are from Multan and have beautiful Sufi scripts. Multani pottery originates from Multan, Pakistan, known for its vibrant blue and white designs inspired by Persian and Islamic art. This traditional craft dates back centuries, flourishing under the influence of various dynasties that ruled the region. Artisans handcraft each piece using locally sourced clay, known for its high quality and durability. The distinctive blue pigment, derived from cobalt oxide, is applied using intricate hand-painting techniques. Multani pottery includes a wide range of items such as vases, bowls, and decorative tiles, prized for their intricate designs and cultural significance, serving as a testament to the region's rich artistic heritage.

6. Attars-The Islamic Perfume

Attar, also known as perfume oil, is a traditional fragrance derived from natural botanical sources. Originating from ancient civilizations like India, Egypt, and Persia, the attar is crafted using delicate distillation methods to extract aromatic essences from flowers, herbs, and spices. Unlike synthetic perfumes, attar contains no alcohol or synthetic chemicals, making it gentle on the skin and suitable for those with sensitivities. Its rich, complex scents linger longer on the skin, evolving to create a unique and personal fragrance experience. Additionally, Attar's natural ingredients offer therapeutic benefits, promoting relaxation, stress relief, and emotional well-being.

7. Turkish Jewelry

These are very beautiful jewllery. If you are fan of Resurrection Ertrugrul or Kurulus Osman you must be familiar.

Turkey is also about beautiful rugs and carpets.

8. Persian Handicrafts.

Persian handicrafts are stunning and quite unique.

We at Indica Collection present to you