For centuries, the “ handi ”, “ kalash ”/ “ gagri ” has been a hallowed part of many Indian households, as it holds deep ritual and cultural implications in our lives. The very first image that comes to many a traditional mind when talking about a handi is that of a naughty Kanhaiya perched on a tree branch, breaking away the pots of all the Gopis passing by. In fact, the importance of a handi in Indian culture is significantly emphasized on an annual basis with the traditional breaking of the “ Dahi Handi ” – with the help of human pyramids – during the exuberant celebration of the festival of Janmashtami. Not to mention the momentous role of a rice – filled kalash in welcoming new brides to their forever homes or of a gangajal – filled one, during any important Pooja or Hawan. Doubtlessly, in Indian culture, the handi is much more than just an earthen or metal pot. In fact, every single piece of these pots is a statement that honours our noble heritage.
Cultural Heritage meets Contemporary Jewellery
Inspired by the black pottery technique of Uttar Pradesh, India, Kabbish proudly presents its Kalash Collection. It showcases unique jewellery pieces that beautifully blend tradition and modernity, in the form of tiny black pots. Rooted most famously in the town of Azamgarh, the distinctive craft of black pottery carries centuries of rural wisdom, passed down from one generation of potters to the next. What sets black pottery apart is its unique firing technique. Instead of being exposed to open flames, the pots are fired in a low – oxygen, smoke – filled kiln. This controlled suffocation turns the red tint of raw earth into a deep, lustrous black hue as carbon settles inside the pores of the pot. After firing, the pots are often burnished with natural oils, giving them a subtle and soft sheen.
The Kabbish Kalash Collection features artisan jewellery that celebrates this unique Indian tradition. It is a sculpted salute to our cultural heritage of black pottery and a beautiful symbol of the partnership between nature and nurture – where the clay provided by nature is skilfully nurtured by the hands of expert artisans and moulded into fabulous wearable art jewellery! These earrings, rings and bracelets, among others, feature black terracotta handis nestled within 24 karat gold and silver – plated brass ornaments. The jewellery is 100% nickel free, making it perfectly safe for everyday use.
Blending Tradition with Contemporary Jewellery Design
Just as the Sun can never be rendered useless, no matter how old it gets, a number of our ancient traditions will also never lose their value. Thus, as we accelerate towards our future, it is pertinent to commemorate these timeless traditions. Contemporary jewellery that honours tradition is a subtle act of continuity, where the past is not suffocated behind glass in a museum but allowed to breathe freely in everyday life. It is an act that teaches tradition to speak a new visual language — one that resonates with changing lifestyles while retaining its original soul. For society, this blending becomes a bridge between generations. It invites younger minds to engage with heritage not as something distant or outdated, but as something living and adaptable. Rooted in this understanding, the Kalash Collection by Kabbish is skillfully handcrafted fusion jewellery that honours what has been, while shaping what can be – with utter respect, imagination, and grace.
