Kachchh is no doubt a colorful place and it carries rich historical presence too. Development and preservation of the art and craft is a huge effort and Khamir short form (Kutch Heritage,Arts, Music Information and Resource) is a organisation that is involved in doing so.
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Khamir is situated at a peaceful locale on the outskirts of
Bhuj near Kukma and is also pretty close to the Bhuj-Bacchau highway.In
addition to its work in preserving and promoting the craft and heritage of
Kachcch, also offers its guesthouses for tourists. So while you stay at Khamir,
you can also witness many artisans at work, see exhibitions and workshops being held there
and also shop at their craft shop which houses handicrafts from the entire
area. This might in fact save you a trip to many villages to see the work
actually being done. That's a different experience altogether when you can
interact with the artisans themselves.
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| Taking utmost care to craft out his creations |
We could understand the entire process of Ajrakh block
printing, saw a potter at work, an artisan
weaving baskets and mats out of recycled plastic sheets and the bell metal studio while here at Khamir.
There was also a wonderful exhibition that was going on, Kachchh Ji Chaap. It was held to uncover the traditions of block print and batik through stories and textiles crafted by artisan communities of Kachchh. Some old and interesting pieces were on display and one could also bid for it.
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| Block printed cloth being dried out. Only natural colors are used |
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| Building blocks of Ajrakh |
The entire campus of Khamir is built in a delightful
architectural style which is appealing and eco-friendly. Accommodation consists
of both, rooms as well as dormitories for larger groups. Unlike a resort, you
cannot expect many facilities here, however the
rooms are clean and basic. Our room had a small courtyard too.
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| The Khamir Campus |
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| Antique fashioned doors and the courtyard give a rustic touch to the room! |
You can have all your meals here in Khamir. They have a
wonderful Nepali cook Manish. Prior intimation is of course required for
dinner. And you would get breakfast only after Manish reaches the campus. (All
staff stay at Bhuj, except for a watchman) and he cooks dinner for you before
he leaves the campus. You can also request him to cook anything of your choice,
as long as it is vegetarian. A small
tuck shop caters to your tea,coffee and snacks during the day. Staff here are
extremely friendly and is like a family.
As the location is pretty much off the main road, the campus
does get lonely after all the staff leave and there is none but a watchman.
Getting a cup of coffee or tea becomes difficult in the morning. Also without a
vehicle you remain pretty much stranded here. They have a tie up with a local
auto guy who can ferry you around. All
in all, the stay at Khamir is a lovely break from the monotony of pool faced
crowded hotels and resorts. We welcomed the year 2014 while there at Khamir away from all the bustle and din of cities.
Next time when at Bhuj, consider staying at Khamir instead of a fancy resort and in some way you are contributing towards their cause of preserving local arts, crafts and heritage.
KHAMIR Craft Resource Centre
Behind BMCB Social City
Lakhond-Kukma Crossroads
Post Village Kukma, Taluka Bhuj
Kachchh, Gujarat 370105
India
Phone
+91 02832 – 271272/422
