Attraction Guide: Amar Kutir, Shantiniketan, India

Amar Kutir Guide

Amar Kutir: Where Art Meets Independence Guide

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the spirit of the Indian independence movement at Amar Kutir, a cooperative unit in Shantiniketan. More than just a craft center, Amar Kutir is a living testament to self-reliance and artistic expression, born from the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore. It's a place where you can witness traditional crafts being made, support local artisans, and take home a piece of India's rich heritage. Amar Kutir's history is deeply intertwined with the freedom struggle. Founded in the 1920s, it served as a hideout for freedom fighters and a center for promoting cottage industries as a means of economic independence. The organization provided vocational training to villagers, empowering them to create and sell their own products. Over the years, it has evolved into a thriving cooperative, showcasing the skills of local artisans in various crafts like leather goods, batik prints, pottery, and handloom textiles. Today, Amar Kutir offers a delightful experience for tourists. You can browse through the diverse collection of handcrafted items, interact with the artisans, and even try your hand at some of the crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs directly from the makers, knowing that your contribution supports their livelihoods and preserves traditional art forms. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly tied to Amar Kutir, you'll find local eateries nearby offering authentic Bengali cuisine.