Collection: Leather Craft

Santiniketan Leather Goods represent a distinctive handcrafted leather tradition originating in Santiniketan in Birbhum district. The craft was granted Geographical Indication status in 2007 in recognition of its unique embossing technique and cultural heritage. The development of this craft is closely associated with Rabindranath Tagore’s educational and cultural initiatives at Visva-Bharati University, which encouraged the revival of rural crafts as a means of sustainable livelihood.

Artisans create leather products using vegetable-tanned leather that is cut, embossed and dyed by hand. The most distinctive feature is the use of hand-carved metal tools to emboss floral and geometric motifs onto the leather surface. After embossing, the leather is hand-dyed and polished, producing richly textured patterns. Santiniketan leather craft today represents a successful blend of artistic tradition and contemporary design.

From the BONGONIKETAN Studio

At BONGONIKETAN, we work closely with artisan cluster in Santiniketan, Birbhum, collaborating with around 15 artisans and directly with master artisans who continue this distinctive leather craft tradition. Each piece is carefully handcrafted using traditional embossing techniques, reflecting the artistry developed in the Santiniketan craft ecosystem. Through this collaboration we create a variety of handcrafted leather products including bags, wallets, book covers, jewellery boxes and other utility items. By working directly with artisans, we strives to preserve this heritage craft while presenting the leather artistry to a wider global audience.

GI Location: Santiniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal
GI Registration Year: 2007
GI Source: Geographical Indications Registry, Intellectual Property India, Government of India