Chamba Chappal: A Heritage of State | HPPSC HPAS Preparation - HPPSC HPAS (Himachal Pardesh) PDF Download

Chamba’s Handmade Chappals: A Unique Craft

• Origin of Chamba Chappal: The making of Chamba chappals, a renowned craft in the region, has a historical backdrop. Initially, the people in Chamba wore basic grass shoes until a cobbler family was introduced to the region through a royal marriage, bringing in the tradition of leather footwear.
• Materials Used: The craftsmen of Chamba predominantly utilize leather sourced from sheep, goat, and calf skin to create these distinctive chappals.
• Embroidery on Chappals: One of the standout features of Chamba chappals is the intricate embroidery adorning them. This embroidery work is meticulously done using silk and golden threads known as Russi-Tilla.
• Design Motifs: The motifs commonly found on Chamba chappals include depictions of lantana flowers and leaves, adding a touch of elegance and distinctiveness to the footwear.
• Historical Relics: An exceptional pair of leather shoes embellished with Zari, belonging to the royal family of Chamba, is preserved at the Bhuri Singh Museum, reflecting the rich cultural heritage associated with these chappals.
• Additional Accessories: Leather embroidered belts, another local favorite, are also prevalent among the residents of Chamba, further showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of the artisans in the region.