Introduction:
During British rule in India, the town handicrafts industry suffered significant setbacks. This was due to various factors, including changes in the economic and political landscape brought about by British colonial policies. The main customers of these handicrafts in the past were the Indian rulers and their courts.

Explanation:
The decline of town handicrafts during British rule can be attributed to several reasons, including the shift in the customer base. Let's explore why the main customers of these handcrafts were the Indian rulers and their courts.

Patronage of Indian Rulers:
1. The Indian rulers, such as kings and princes, had a long-standing tradition of supporting and patronizing various art forms and crafts. They would often commission exquisite pieces of art, textiles, and other handicrafts to adorn their palaces and courtly spaces.
2. The rulers and their courts were the primary consumers of these handicrafts, providing a significant market for the artisans. They would purchase these products for personal use, gifting purposes, or as a symbol of wealth and prestige.
3. The royal courts also served as centers of cultural and artistic patronage, where skilled artisans could find employment and recognition for their craftsmanship.

Disruption under British Rule:
1. With the advent of British rule, the dynamics of the handicraft industry underwent a significant transformation. The British colonial administration introduced policies that aimed at promoting British manufactured goods and undermining local industries.
2. The British East India Company and later the British government imposed heavy taxes and duties on Indian handicrafts, making them uncompetitive in the market. This led to a decline in demand for Indian handicrafts, including those produced in towns.
3. The British also established their own manufacturing centers, which produced goods at a large scale using industrial machinery. These mass-produced goods flooded the Indian market, further marginalizing the traditional handicraft industry.
4. As a result, the Indian rulers and their courts, who were the traditional customers of town handicrafts, faced financial constraints and a reduced ability to support local artisans. Their patronage declined, causing a significant blow to the industry.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, during British rule in India, the main customers of town handicrafts were the Indian rulers and their courts. However, the policies and economic changes introduced by the British led to a decline in the patronage of these handicrafts. The imposition of taxes and duties, along with the promotion of British manufactured goods, disrupted the traditional customer base and contributed to the decline of the town handicraft industry.