Namda

Namda stand for Indian tradition in the present day. Namda is a local term used for felted wool floor coverings. It is a wool traditional floor covering, made out of coarse variety of wool. Rich hues and exquisite designing are the hallmarks of the handcrafted Namda. Namda comes from the root word Namata, which is a Sanskrit word and it means woolen stuff'. Namda making is practiced as a craft in several cultures, especially the countries throughout Asia, viz. Iran in Persia, Afghanistan and several places in Laddalch, Kutch and Kashmir and Rajasthan in India'.

The craft of namda making is not native, to Rajasthan. It is known to have come from distant land of Iran and the art of Namda making was actively promoted in the state under the patronage of the range from modem textiles of fleecy soft texture by Mughal monarchs and the Rajput royals. Unique themes and floral patterns provide the themes for these masterpieces and flowers and leaves, buds and fruits are the essence of the designs'.

About 98 km from Jaipur, Tonk is already well known for its bidis, carpets, and melons. The namda have added another dimension to its fair renown. Though its origin may have been Persian, once the Indian craftsmen picked up the craft they made it their own. Making it is very distinct by use of their exclusive designs. Rajasthan produces around 40% of the country's raw wool and this sector supports nearly 30 lakh persons. It is said that there are only two namda making centers in India: Srinagar in Kashmir and Tonk in Rajasthan.