Promoting swavlambi Bharat by branding terracotta art of Jammu and Kashmir: A roadmap to Viksit Bharat

Abstract

Terracotta art, a form of ceramic expression made from baked earth, represents one of the earliest and most enduring forms of material culture in India. In the region of Jammu and Kashmir, terracotta has played a pivotal role in shaping the artistic, religious, and socio-economic narratives of the past. This paper explores the evolution, stylistic attributes, techniques, and cultural significance of terracotta art in Jammu and Kashmir from ancient to modern times. It evaluates archaeological findings, traditional practices, religious motifs, and current trends while situating the art form within the broader spectrum of Indian terracotta traditions. The paper also assesses challenges to the survival of this heritage in the face of modernization and offers suggestions for its preservation.