ABOUT US
Welcome to CAARIGAR - The Craftsman
Quality Materials
We use only quality brass materials and other metals for developing our products.
First Exporter
CAARIGAR – The Craftsman is an offshoot of Haji Kallan and Brother (Established 1900).
All Hand Made
We have been providing our clients around the world with hand made world class hardware and handicraft since 1900.
Located In INDIA
CAARIGAR – The Craftsman is located in the historical city of Moradabad in Northern India.
LINEAGE
The Caarigar legacy stretches back over 150 years, beginning in the early 1850s when Sheikh Elahibaqsh laid the foundation for what would become a hallmark of craftsmanship in Moradabad. Rooted in the rich tradition of brass handicraft, the business was passed down to his son, Nadir Hussain, who continued to nurture this fledgling enterprise. Yet, it was the third generation, led by Haji Aijaz Hussain—affectionately known as Haji Kallan—and his brother Haji Doolah, that transformed the family trade into an enduring business.
Haji Kallan with the First 30 inches Aftaba (Ewer), 1953.
Medal awarded to Haji Kallan, 1924.
In 1900, these visionary brothers gave the business a formal identity, founding Haji Kallan & Brother, and, in doing so, they became the pioneers of brass handicraft export from Moradabad. This was an era when Indian artisanship had yet to gain international recognition, but under their stewardship, the brand carved a niche in global markets. Establishing offices in Jaipur, Bombay, and Delhi, they quickly became synonymous with excellence in both the domestic and export sectors. By the 1930s, their brass creations had found their way to discerning clients across continents, positioning the family as a key player in India’s burgeoning handicraft industry.
Letter from Ignaz Strauss & Company, Broadway, New York. 1956.
Haji Kallan and Haji Doolah with representatives from Ignaz Strauss & Co. 1949.
Building upon this foundation, Abid Hussain, the son of Haji Kallan, continued the family’s trajectory of growth and innovation. Recognizing the need for expansion beyond Moradabad, he established a manufacturing unit in Khajuraho, a move that not only boosted production but also integrated more modern techniques with traditional craftsmanship. Abid Hussain’s foresight led to the establishment of Orient Decorative Handicraft in Khajuraho and Caarigar in South India, with flourishing operations in Hyderabad and Bangalore. These expansions ensured that the family’s 150-year-old heritage adapted to changing times while retaining the essence of its craftsmanship.
Invoice, 1956.
Advertisement in the British Directory 1956.
Throughout generations, Caarigar has remained a beacon of artistic excellence, resilience, and innovation. From humble beginnings in Moradabad to becoming a leading name in India’s brass handicraft export industry, the family’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has transcended time, standing as a testament to their vision and enduring legacy.
Moradabad has been renowned for its exquisite artware for centuries. The city’s traditional craftsmanship, particularly its intricate hand-engraving and enameling, has long captivated the world. Artisans would first engrave delicate floral designs—a process locally known as ulchayi—and then embellish the pieces with vibrant enamel. This art form, though heavily influenced by Mughal aesthetics, is believed to have originated in Iran. The export of brass handicrafts not only brought international acclaim to the once-quiet city but also earned it the title “Peetal Nagri,” meaning Brass City.
Today, Moradabad’s artware industry thrives more than ever, expanding its expertise beyond brass to include copper, aluminum, iron, and even steel, further cementing its place on the global map.
Today, Moradabad’s artware industry thrives more than ever, expanding its expertise beyond brass to include copper, aluminum, iron, and even steel, further cementing its place on the global map.
