Silver linings: Bidri art

Bidri, which means “from Bidar” is an art form that has its roots in Persia and is part of what is called Koftgiri art, i.e. inlay of one metal (usually gold or silver) on to another metal, mostly iron. This art was greatly encouraged by the Bahmani Sultanate, and flourished under their rule in the 14th and 15th centuries. Bidriware has been part of Indian art and craft since then, and even as kingdoms changed, the art form grew in strength and complexity. Today, it is a GI-tagged art form that has evolved over time and is looking at a shinier future.