Hodka Village - Gujarat
Hodka is a tribal settlement at the edge of the inhospitable but impressive Rann of Kutch, occupied by the muslim halepotra and the hindu meghwal communities, each famous for their unique and enchanting arts and crafts. The colourful attrire of the people, rich art and craft and strong cultural background of the village is what enchants the tourists most. The village is slowly becoming hot as the rural tourism destination.
Hodka village is famous for its art and craft work. Every hamlet in the village have their own distinguished designs and patterns. As part of their tradition every girl in the village is taught to embroider at an age when the other children usually prefer going to the school. Slowly they learn the running stitch, making purses, skirts, cholis, quilt, covers for cattle horn, door hangings, embroidered items embellished with mirrors, shells, beads and tassels and so on.
But what impresses the visitors most are the circular mud huts called 'bhungas', with conical roofs of intricately woven grass. The people of the village use dung and natural dyes in earth tones to decorate and paint their houses.
You can visit the other hamlets in this region accompanied by the local bhomiyas or guides, who give you proper insight into the lifestyle of the villagers. You’ll also be able to observe the making of finest embroidery work and leather craft and converse with the families of different artisans and discuss about their livelihood and craft.
Shaam-e-Sarhad (Sunset at the Border), is an ecotourism resort near Hodka. It is run by the local people and is built and designed using traditional crafts. Day trippers stop here for lunch cooked and served by the villagers. The Kutch cuisine here is absolutely delicious! Insulated in this warm cocoon from the chilly wind blowing across the region, you can stay overnight undisturbed and wake up to find yourself in a living museum of local craftsmanship—elegant patterns in mud and mirror work on the walls, delicate latticework, carved wooden windows and painted doors with laquered handles. |
