Hoshiarpur Wooden Inlay

Wooden inlay is a traditional craft of the Punjab region, with a history dating back approximately 350 years, according to Inlay World's website. Initially, artisans decorated musical instruments such as the veena, swarmandal, tanpura, and sitar with inlay work. Over time, the craft expanded to furniture, jewellery boxes, trays, chests, and other household objects.

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The story of Hoshiarpur Wooden Inlay

History

Hoshiarpur's wooden inlay craft in Punjab has a history dating back approximately 350 years. According to Inlay World, the craft was initially practised on musical instruments such as the veena, swarmandal, tanpura, and sitar. Over time, artisans extended this decorative technique to furniture, jewellery boxes, trays, chests, and other household objects.

Traditionally, ivory was used to create intricate inlay patterns on wood. Following the ban on ivory use in 1975, artisans adopted acrylic plastic as an alternative material, continuing the craft's decorative tradition.

Today, Hoshiarpur wooden inlay remains an important part of the region's traditional craftsmanship.

Meet the makers

Artisans of Hoshiarpur Wooden Inlay

The artisans whose work is listed under Hoshiarpur Wooden Inlay.

HOSHIARPUR WOODEN INLAY CLUSTER

Wooden Inlay Cluster, Hoshiarpur is a collective dedicated to preserving and promoting Punjab’s traditional wooden inlay craftsmanship. Supported by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, the cluster showcases handcrafted products made by skilled artisans from Hoshiarpur and nearby areas. The craft, with a history of around 350 years in the Punjab region, features intricate decorative work on furniture, jewellery boxes, trays, and other wooden products. Through artisan training, design development, and marketing support, the cluster helps strengthen traditional skills, create livelihood opportunities, and bring Hoshiarpur’s rich woodcraft heritage to a wider audience. The Society’s work includes the making and supply of curated wooden articles such as decorative elephants, chowkis, stools, mirrors, chess sets and wooden shelving. Its craft base draws on Hoshiarpur’s recognized wood-inlay and carving tradition, combining skilled workmanship with functional and decorative applications.

Meet HOSHIARPUR

Handcrafted Hoshiarpur Wooden Inlay