Mathura Sanjhi Craft
Paper Crafts
History
Sanjhi, a traditional paper stenciling art from Mathura and Vrindavan, originated from the words “sajja” (decoration) and “sanjh” (dusk). Practiced during evening rituals in Vaishnava temples, it flourished in the 15th–16th centuries. According to legend, Radha created Sanjhi designs to please Krishna. The art, preserved in temples like Radharaman, features intricate rangolis that depict mythological tales and Krishna’s pastimes, reflecting the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage through devotion and delicate craftsmanship.
Raw Materials and Tools
Initially, rough paper and banana leaves were used to make the stencils. Nowadays, recycled, handmade paper is commonly used. Dry colours, coloured stones, fresh flowers, mirror pieces, and metal foil are used for filling in the rangoli designs, bringing depth and vibrancy to the Sanjhi compositions.
Process
Earlier made on rough paper and banana leaves, Sanjhi stencils are now crafted from recycled handmade paper. Designs are hand-drawn, and multiple copies are created by pinning papers together. Fine, slightly curved scissors are used to cut the intricate patterns, with artisans rotating the paper for precision. These stencils are then used to form rangoli designs by filling them with dry colors, flower petals, mirror pieces, colored stones, or metal foil, resulting in vibrant, decorative floor art.
Design and Color
Sanjhi art is a devotional celebration of love, reflecting Krishna’s leelas, Vrindavan’s glory, and sacred symbols like peacocks and floral motifs. Traditionally used in temple rituals, it enhances spiritual ambiance through intricate rangoli designs. The vibrant colours and materials—dry powders, fresh flowers, mirror pieces, coloured stones, and metal foil—carry symbolic meanings tied to emotions and devotion. Together, they create a visually captivating and spiritually uplifting expression of divine beauty and transcendence.
Product Range
Traditionally used to create rangolis, Sanjhi stencil art has evolved with time. Sanjhi themes have gained recognition in the fashion industry and architecture spectrum. The stencil cut-outs are used in various forms to create textile patterns. Items such as lampshades, mirrors, wall hangings, coasters, and other lifestyle products are made with Sanjhi art. The stencil cutouts are also used as framed art pieces, carrying forward the devotional essence into contemporary spaces.
Additional Information
