About the Workshop

Usta art is practised by artists in the district of Bikaner in Rajasthan. The word 'usta' is derived from the Persian word 'ustad', which means master. The art came to India during the Mughal emperor, Akbar's rule. These artists worked on the famous Junagarh Fort in Bikaner. Usta art has various techniques and forms, out of which the Sunehri Munawwati Nakkashi work is the most popular. This involves 24 carat gold embossing on walls, ceilings, wood and marble. The major manifestations of Usta art in Bikaner can be seen in places such as the Phool Mahal, Chandra Palace, Karan Palace and Anoop Palace. All these are housed inside the famous Junagarh Fort.