About Pembarthi Metal Craft Village
Pembarthi is a village in Jangaon district renowned for its centuries-old tradition of brass and copper metal handicrafts dating back to the Kakatiya dynasty. The village received a Geographical Indication tag in 2010 and was recognized as one of India's Best Tourism Villages in 2023. Visitors can observe skilled Vishwakarma artisans creating intricate sheet-metal embossed artifacts including idols, figurines, utensils, and decorative pieces using traditional hand-carving techniques.
Visitors guide
Visitors can walk through artisan workshops and witness craftsmen engaged in rhythmic hammering and embossing of brass sheets into elaborate artworks. The village features multiple family-run workshops where artisans demonstrate traditional repoussé techniques passed down through generations. Tourists can interact with craftspeople, observe the complete crafting process from raw metal sheets to finished products, and purchase authentic brassware directly from makers. The village maintains a clean environment with solar lighting and eco-friendly practices.
Key highlights
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Over 800 years of metal craft heritage linked to the Kakatiya dynasty
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Geographical Indication (GI) tag awarded in 2010
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Recognition as Best Tourism Village by Ministry of Tourism in 2023
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More than 600 skilled Vishwakarma artisans practicing traditional brass work
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Traditional sheet-metal embossing and repoussé techniques
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Eco-friendly village with solar lighting and ban on single-use plastics
History of Pembarthi Metal Craft Village
Pembarthi metal craft tradition dates back over 800 years to the Kakatiya dynasty period (12th-14th century CE). During this era, skilled Vishwakarma artisans created temple doors, idols, lamps, and other religious artifacts under royal patronage. The craft transitioned from silver and gold work to brass metalware, with Pembarthi becoming a pioneer in introducing brass crafts. The village has maintained these ancient techniques through generations, preserving an unbroken lineage of metal craftsmanship.
Culture & Context
The village represents a living heritage of traditional Indian metalworking practiced by the Vishwakarma community. Pembarthi brassware received Geographical Indication status in 2010, recognizing its unique cultural identity and authentic production methods. The craft holds deep spiritual significance as artisans create religious idols, temple decorations, and ritual objects used in worship across India. The village was honored as one of India's Best Tourism Villages in 2023 by the Ministry of Tourism, acknowledging its role in preserving intangible cultural heritage while promoting sustainable rural tourism.