Uttarakhand is a state filled with stories and tradition and this chaalk is a representation of it. “Chaalk” in Kumaoni language is a small table used for religious ceremonies, also known as “Chauki”.
During research phase I tried to understand what is Uttarakhand’s uniqueness. Himalayas, art, tradition, monuments etc. One thing that only Uttarakhand has is “Chaar Dhaam”, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yumnotri and Gangotri temples. People from around the country come to visit these four places that are front face of Uttarakhand. I ideated if this could somehow be connected with my project. Another key aspect defining my design is the woodwork of traditional houses of Kumaon, the Bakhulis. This is yet another dying art and only one master craftsmen involved in Bakhuli woodwork lives today, residing in Nainital. Bakhulis have a unique aesthetic and serve smartly when it comes to functionality. These are brilliant examples of sincere craftsmanship and smart Design but sadly most of these are left abandoned due to one reason or the other.
The intent of this table is to hold place of a symbol rather than an object. I explored museum works, local paintings, relevant techniques (Pietra Dura, Persian carpet making tradition etc.), folklores etc. and tried to see how these can be combined with my understanding of modern industrial design. Total 4 concepts were made before arriving on this final concept. The detail with which it has been designed will push the involved craftsmen to new limits, up-skilling them and making them best in class. From point of view of revenue generation, this product will attract pilgrims, which happen to constitute large proportion of tourists and it has been designed in such a way that it will be easy for them to take it back home.
Major nearby markets where such products are usually sold are Almora, Nainital, Mukteshwar and Ranikhet. Almora and Mukteshwar can be seen as hub of such activities. Many entrepreneurs have settled in these two hill stations which has boomed the business of handicrafts there and in connecting towns. Products are usually sent to major cities like Delhi via post and this product has been optimised for that as well.
It is made up of seasoned pinewood, which is a soft wood and is lightweight. It is found in abundance in Kumaon region making it ideal for this purpose.
