Artisan – Dr. Shyamlata Gahlot
Craft – Koftgiri
Innovation and tradition converge in Dr. Shyamlata Gahlot kattar, or dagger. Crafted from Damascus steel, the dagger is inlaid with pure gold wire along both sides of the handle, ending at the head of the weapon.
This National Award-winning piece stands out for its proportions and delicate inlay work in the Rajasthan style. The hollow at the center of the blade is filled with tiny steel balls, inspired by Maharana Pratap’s personal weapon.
Koftgiri artists use small tools to create handmade weapons adorned with intricate embellishments. Although weapon use has declined, the art form thrives thanks to artisans like Dr. Shyamlata Gahlot, the only woman practicing Koftgiri art. By adapting traditional techniques, these artisans ensure the legacy of Koftgiri art continues.
