ARTISAN OF UDAYAGIRI WOODEN CUTLERY CRAFT STATE AWARD WINNER

Profile of Artist:

Ghousia Begum is one of the artisans who works with the Udayagiri cluster, a craft originates back to the Qutub Shah dynasty and says that the craft has been passed on through generations. Udayagiri cutlery, which comes in both, traditional and contemporary shapes. What makes Udayagiri cutlery from Nellore stand out is that they’re completely wooden. The most commonly used wood is from Nardi as it is very soft and easy to handle.

The century-old craft form of Udayagiri in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh, is now regaining attention for its wooden cutlery items.

Earlier men used to work on the craft but now mostly Muslim women are practicing it. Now they are planning to introduce new techniques in the making for betterment of the trade.

Ghousia Begum’s Son Zakeer who like other children, had taken up a well-paying steady job, decided to return to the craft form. Seeing his mother’s dedication, he started to assist her, motivated by the fact that this craft is unique to Udayagiri, and found nowhere else in the world. At present he supports her mother in promoting and developing the trade of wooden cutlery.

Contact Detail:

Name:	GHOUSIA BEGUM
Address:	Dilavar Bhai Street, Udayagiri SPSR, Nellore District, Andhara Pradesh 524226
Phone No:	8074727896
Whats app No:	9492591085
E-mail Id:	zakeerudgr@gmail.com